Former Buc Derrick Brooks may run for Florida Senate

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The Times reports that Florida Democrst are courting Brooks for a state Senate run.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- A former Tampa Bay Buccaneer may be on the list to fill an open state Senate seat.

According to Bay News 9's partner paper, the St. Petersburg Times, Florida Democrats are courting Derrick Brooks to run for the District 12 seat.

So far, Brooks is not confirming the reports. When asked whether he was looking at a possible new career in politics, Brooks said he was not at liberty to discuss it, but that if he does run, it will not be a secret.

If Brooks were to run, it would be his first foray into politics. The Times reports that Brooks is a registered voter with no party affiliation. However, Gov. Jeb Bush appointed him to the Florida State University Board of Trustees, and since then, people have questioned him about his political aspirations.

Brooks does have his own foundation, called Derrick Brooks Charities. His organization helps children with education opportunities. Years ago, he also helped set up a charter high school in Hillsborough County.

Should Brooks run, he will face two Republican opponents: Jim Norman, a Hillsborough County commissioner, and Kevin Ambler, who represents District 47 in the Florida House.

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