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2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: George Hawkins III, OLB, Columbia University

Learn about George Hawkins III, a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Discover his versatile skill set as a Linebacker and Defensive Back.
Learn about George Hawkins III, a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. Discover his versatile skill set as a Linebacker and Defensive Back.
  • Name: George E Hawkins III
  • Position: OLB/Rover
  • College: Columbia University
  • Height: 6’0”
  • Weight: 206
  • Instagram: ghawk.3

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?

What makes me [George E. Hawkins III] a top prospect as a Linebacker (LB) and Defensive Back (DB) for the 2025 NFL Draft is the versatile skill set that I have developed during my years of training and playing football on the collegiate level.  As an Outside Linebacker (OLB) I understand that my position is one of the more diverse and demanding positions in a defensive line. I excel at reading my keys, knowing my assignment and executing it. I take on the responsibility for stopping the run, the pass, and everything in between. I am considered the “One stop shop”.  I  am athletic, a reliable wrap-up tackler; quickly recognize and react to the ball; the ability  to play off the ball, rush the passer, and stop the run. Last but not least, I am a leader on the field. All of the above is what makes me [George E. Hawkins III] a top prospect as a LB /DB in the 2025 NFL Draft. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I’m someone who doesn’t give up in the face of adversity. I constantly put in extra hours to improve myself and live by the motto, “We are only as strong as our weakest link.” I push not only myself to be better but also my teammates, striving to elevate everyone around me. I’m a team player and a leader who will do whatever it takes to make the team successful, no matter my role.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

If I could donate to one cause in the world, I would donate to Cancer Research. Unfortunately, I have lost several of my family members to cancer. My 80-year-old grandmother is a breast cancer survivor, and she has been a significant source of support in my life.  Donating to Cancer research is an excellent way to help create a cancer-free future. It would effectively support lifesaving research, prevention, early detection, patient support, and essential information for people facing cancer and their families.

Who was your role model?

My mother [Donna Hawkins], is my biggest role model and the driving force behind everything I strive for. Her resilience, integrity, and determination inspire me to aim for greatness in every aspect of life. As a single parent, she overcame countless obstacles, showing unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for me to succeed. She pushed me to excel both in the classroom and on the field, often acting as a personal coach. After games, we’d talk about what I could improve, always sharpening my edge. Her dedication to continuous self-improvement has shaped my own values, and I’ve adopted her resilience and determination in pursuing my goals and dreams. She is the reason I am here today, constantly striving for more.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

My favorite NFL Team is The Philadelphia Eagles. I grew up watching them play back when Donovan McNabb was still the quarterback.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

My most underrated teammate at Columbia was Defensive Lineman, John Martin [#91].  John was an excellent Defensive Lineman who did not get the recognition he deserved. 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is when people do not say what they mean and mean what they say. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher ever was my High School Teacher, Ms. Hatt. She taught American History. Ms. Hatt was a great mentor, and always inspired all of her students to strive for excellence.

Overcoming adversity is what defines character. What was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

One of the hardest moments in my life to overcome was when I had surgery on my pectoral muscle in April 2023. It was a rough road to my recovery; however, I focused on following my doctor’s instructions. I tried to maintain a positive attitude and focused on the progress I was making, even when it seemed as if it was slow. I broke down large recovery goals into smaller, achievable steps in order for me to stay motivated. I actively participated in my physical therapy sessions in order for me to regain strength and mobility in my pectoral muscle. Having patients with my body as it healed was another obstacle that I needed to overcome during my recovery.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house, what would it be?

If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house, it would be Mr. Snappers, which is my favorite restaurant in my hometown, Jacksonville, Florida. 

What is your favorite snack food?

Sour Patch Watermelons.

What is your degree in?

I am in a Dual-Degree program for Mechanical Engineering. I initially began my college career at Bates College where I have already earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Physics/Engineering in May 2024. I am currently pursuing my Bachelor’s Degree in  Mechanical Engineering  at Columbia University in which I will graduate in May 2025. 

If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

First, Michael Jordan, because of the way he revolutionized basketball and the hard work he put into the game. He was also a team player who trusted his teammates, even in critical moments. Second, Jesse Owens, because he not only dominated his sport but also managed to juggle immense responsibilities while still improving himself. Lastly, Luke Kuechly, because he transformed the middle linebacker position, excelling in both run defense and pass coverage. I’d love to learn about his instincts and how he approached the game.

What is your biggest weakness?

I’d say my biggest weakness is being a perfectionist. Sometimes, I get caught up in not letting things go until they’re perfect or until I fully understand every detail of a situation.

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