Diamond in the Rough: Khalil Brisco

Khalil Brisco is a 4* LB out of Thibodaux High School (Thibodaux, LA). Brisco stands at 5’11 and 215 lbs, with a bench press of 315 and a squat of 435. Brisco possesses an uncanny nose for the football and uses his 4.6 speed to cover side-line to sideline. To compliment Brisco’s amazing speed, Khalil has the strength the shred blocks and bully his way through the line with great arm strength. Along with being a force in neutralizing the run, Brisco excels in pass coverage, using his incredible power to jar the ball loose, or his speed to cover the entire field as he swallows up passing lanes.

How old were you when you first started playing football? What attracted you to the sport at that age?

I began playing football when I was around 7 years old. What made me want to get involved was the physicality of the sport. I loved how it allows such a high amount of contact.

What makes you stand out as a linebacker and what is an area of play that you believe most linebackers at your level should focus on the most?

I’ve always had a great nose for the football. I can cover the entire length of the field, sideline to sideline. I think the most important characteristic for a linebacker is definitely football IQ. Football IQ is something that needs to continuously be worked on, especially when it comes to film. That’s something that guys even at the highest level are always working on.

Is there anything in particular that you have gotten better at as an athlete over the years?

My strength has gotten much better. I’ve been making sure to put in the work in the weightroom to make sure of that. Another thing is my speed, I can really tell how much faster I’ve become now that I’m a senior.

Aside from the physical aspects of football, what is something you believe most high school athletes should focus on?

Definitely their work in the classroom. There’s so much wasted talent out there with guys who could be really special players, but never get their shot because they don’t take school seriously and can’t qualify.

What motivates you the most on gameday?

For me, it’s the doubters. Whether its people you know or the opposing team, there’s always someone doubting you as a player. I keep that in the back of my mind when I’m playing because it really adds fuel to my fire. I feed off of the hate.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you as an athlete?

They would consider me a ball hawk. Like I said earlier, I’m always around the ball, no matter where the play is I’m going to find the football and make a play.

Is there an athlete in college or the NFL that you look up to the most and that you model your game after?

My favorite athletes are Ray Lewis, Devin White, and Jamal Adams. I see myself most in Devin White. I love his speed and his ability to cover the entire field.

What is the hardest part about playing linebacker?

Reading the line of scrimmage. You really have to focus in on everyone because it’s important to recognize their blocking schemes.

Is there anything person or thing in particular that serves as your motivation to play football?

It’s all about making my family proud of me. That’s what keeps me going. I love setting an example for my family members by staying and showing my character on the field.

When you are not on the practice field or playing in a game, what are some things you like to do in your free time?

Being with my friends always brings me a lot of joy. When I’m not with my friends or family I enjoy working out and having my alone time. I think it’s important for everyone to have their “me time.” It lets you clear your head and allows you to focus on your game.

If not linebacker, what other positions would you like to play or believe you would strive at?

If not linebacker, I’d like to play safety or running back. In middle-school I actually played running back because of my speed and strength, so I’m pretty comfortable at that position and always loved it.

Any personal goals that you are pursuing this season?