Born in Stockton-on-Tees, he started his career with Fulham in May 1924 and made six Football League appearances during two seasons with the club.
While at Fulham, he was awarded a gold medal after giving blood to club trainer Elijah Morse at the scene of a crash.
Brooks moved to Nelson on a free transfer in March 1929 and made his debut for the club in the 2–1 win against Wigan Borough.
Brooks made only one more league appearance for Nelson, playing in an unfamiliar left-back position in the 1–5 defeat to Lincoln City on 20 April 1929.
In August 1929, Brooks signed for York City, one of several new recruits as the club prepared for their first campaign in the Football League.