One Of The Top Defensive Tackles In California: Malik Brooks

Malik Brooks is a 3 Star recruit who plays Defensive Tackle at St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy. Brooks is ranked as the 783rd best recruit in the class of 2026 and is ranked as a top 90 Defensive Tackle in the class as well. In addition, Brooks is listed as a top 70 recruit in the state of California and is listed as the #5 Defensive Tackle in the state of California. He is committed to play at USC.

Who are some role models in your life?
My role model is my head coach, Devah Thomas. He has been nothing less than a great man and always believed in me since day one.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
I listen to No Cap, NBA Youngboy, and Lil Durk.

What are the strengths of your game?
My strengths are my ability to run and my overall quickness as a big man.

What is your favorite memory of your career?
Winning the CIF Championship.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The best player I’ve ever played with or against is Julian Lewis.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Keep your head down, keep working, and your time will come sooner than later.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
The Bahamas, because my mom was born there.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I was 4 years old. My big cousin and I used to play all the time as kids in our great grandma’s backyard.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
I would love to meet Cam Newton.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
When Cam Newton won the MVP.