2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: James Hawkins, DB, Albany State University

• Name: James Hawkins
• Position: DB
• College: Albany State University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 191 lbs
• Twitter: @hawkins22_
• Instagram: @hawkins__

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

Watching Michael Vick on television when i was younger was similar to seeing a super hero in real life! Watching him was huge inspiration for me growing up.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

In middle school I had a game-winning pick 6 to beat our cross town rival for the first time in school history but my best moment was kicking the game winning 37 yard field goal to send my high school team to the playoffs in back to back years for the first time in school history. That was definitely a surreal moment. Next to that would have to be my game against Fort Valley in 2019 when I blocked 3 punts and scored 2 TD’s from it. I won MVP that game and went on to have consecutive punt blocks for TD’s the next two years against them which was huge since they are our rival team.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I want to continue to grow into a better player and have a better understanding of the game so that I can play at the top level with the best of the best. I want to gain the right connections and outlets so that I can be in the best position possible for me.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Probably Ed Reed just to learn from his playing instincts on how he was able to make the plays he made and read the game the way he did.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My Dad is my biggest inspiration because day in and day out, he shows me what it’s like to have to grind and work for everything you want in life. The many lessons that he’s taught me has taken me a long way and I’m extremely thankful for him

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I enjoy running the 4-2-5 multiple set because it gives you an advantage with having more DB’s on the field especially if you have a good overhang/nickel player.

What should we know about James Hawkins the person?

I’m a humble person with a passionate work ethic. I’ve been through a lot of different forms of adversity but time and time again I always come back stronger than I was before it happened. Any situation or problem I’ve always flipped it and made it to where I learn and benefit from what happens.

What stands out about your film the most?

My hustle to the football in any situation and my versatility. I can go block punts or cover kicks for special teams, I can go in on blitzes and spill blocks, set the edge, cover both smaller slots and bigger TE’s, and I can play top down as a high safety.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I take everything on with a positive attitude and search for the best solutions. If I need help or guidance I will ask those who I trust and I also will turn to my faith in God to find all the answers I need.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a fully bought in and committed player that will be dedicated to learning and understanding their role and how the entire scheme works. I’m passionate and I will bring others up with me to help boost the team altogether.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

Regardless of what level you play football on, you will always face adversity and that’s what builds character which is an important trait in all forms of life, not just football. Then the connections you make from enduring the adversity are truly lifelong connections. Nobody else is gonna know what the experience is like other than those teammates who shared that same experience.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Brindon Manuel was easily the most underrated player I’ve ever played with. Prior to the 2021 season, our DL #0 Manuel had just slimmed down and worked off a lot of weight. Some wondered how it would affect his production as our Noseguard and he was an absolute beast in 2021. Any time teams ran the ball up the middle against us, he was either making the tackle or getting held. His work ethic reflected in his production for our team.