It pays to have friends in high places. Rod Marinelli inherited several stars when he arrived at Tampa Bay in the late 1990’s to coach on their defensive staff. Among them was Derrick Brooks, elected to the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility back in 2014. Brooks played weakside linebacker for Marinelli’s defense and was the havoc-causing player in the Bucs back seven.

Derrick Brooks says that Rod Marinelli has encouraged him to come work with some of the players on the Cowboys. He's going to. Sweet. — Jeff Cavanaugh (@JC1053) February 2, 2017

Now, he’ll be helping Marinelli get the best out of the Cowboys linebacking corps. This group now includes Jaylon Smith, after sitting out his rookie season due to injury. Brooks influence on Smith and other young linebackers such as Damien Wilson, Anthony Hitchens and Mark Nzeocha will be invaluable.

Sean Lee plays Brooks’ position in the Cowboys defense and has made two straight Pro Bowls and was also named first-team All-Pro in 2016. A student of the game, even he will be able to take away some great lessons about playing the position from the 11-time Pro Bowler and 9-time All-Pro Brooks.

Brooks had over 1,700 career tackles along with 25 interceptions and 24 forced fumbles. He spent his entire 14-year career in Tampa Bay and currently works in their front office.