Derrick Brooks is a former American football linebacker who played 14 seasons in the National Football League (NFL). He was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft and played his entire professional career for the Buccaneers. He was an eleven-time Pro Bowl selection and a nine-time All-Pro selection. He was also named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2002 and the NFL Alumni Linebacker of the Year in 2003.

Brooks was a two-time consensus All-American at Florida State University, where he was a member of the school's first national championship team in 1993. He was also a two-time ACC Defensive Player of the Year and the 1994 ACC Player of the Year.

During his NFL career, Brooks was known for his leadership, intelligence, and versatility. He was a key member of the Buccaneers' defense that helped the team win Super Bowl XXXVII. He was also a leader in the locker room, serving as a mentor to younger players and a team captain for many years.

Brooks was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, becoming the first Tampa Bay Buccaneer to be so honored. He was also inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016. He currently serves as the President of the Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League.

Throughout his career, Brooks was known for his dedication to the game, his commitment to excellence, and his ability to make big plays in big moments. He was a true leader on and off the field, and his legacy will continue to live on in the NFL for many years to come.

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