Aaron Brooks was born on March 24, 1976, in Newport News, Virginia. Raised in this coastal city, Brooks attended high school locally before earning a scholarship to the University of Virginia. He graduated from the university in 1999, setting the stage for a professional football career that would span nearly a decade. Brooks grew up around professional athletes, including two of his cousins who also played in the NFL, which provided a strong motivational foundation for his own athletic pursuits.

College Football Career at the University of Virginia

Brooks began his collegiate football journey in 1995, quickly earning a spot in the starting lineup. Competing with teammate Mike Groh for the quarterback position, Brooks demonstrated resilience and growth throughout his college career. An injury to Groh eventually gave Brooks the opportunity to lead the team, and his perseverance and talent helped elevate the team's performance. His time at the University of Virginia was marked by steady development, which prepared him for the demands of professional football.