Derrick Forsythe / Rock M Nation

He had to wait a bit longer than expected, but Kentrell Brothers finally found out his NFL destination when the Minnesota Vikings selected him 160th, midway through the fifth round.

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NFL Draft Profile: Kentrell Brothers

Jack Peglow

He led the nation in tackles and tackles per game, but high levels of production don’t always lead to a high round pick.

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Brothers recorded 152 tackles (73 solo, 79 assists) in 2015, with 12 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two interceptions, three break-ups, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and three blocked kicks. He was the driving force of a strong defense, and falling in the draft should help to keep an already well-sized chip on Brothers’ shoulders.

The same player who didn’t get an in-state offer from Oklahoma or Oklahoma State before choosing Missouri, the same player who wasn’t listed as a Butkus Award semifinalist despite insane production (presumably because his team’s offense stunk), was doubted, at least in part, because of average measurables. If he needed extra motivation to produce (and he probably didn’t), he’s got it now.

In five years at Mizzou, Brothers worked his way up the depth chart and took full advantage of the opportunities he got. A steady player on two SEC East championship teams, he erupted as a senior leader last fall. He will be missed, and we will be rooting for him. Cheers, Kentrell.