Andrew Hawkins stepped onto the gridiron in 341 contests for his career. His percentage of passes caught sat at 61.3% and he earned that by catching 209 of the 341 passes that went his way. He earned 2,419 yards and had an average of 11.6 yards per reception. During his NFL career, Hawkins grabbed 9 touchdowns. His receptions per game and yards per game average were 0.6 and 7.1 yards. Andrew Hawkins, a name that might not be as widely recognized as some of the NFL’s top stars, had a career filled with perseverance, hard work, and moments of brilliance. His journey from an undrafted player to a key wide receiver in the NFL is a testament to his dedication and talent. In this article, we will explore the rise and fall of Andrew Hawkins, delving into his stats, his NFL career, and the impact he had on the field.
Early Life and College Career
Andrew Hawkins was born on March 10, 1986, in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in sports, particularly football. Hawkins attended Bishop McCort High School, where he played as a wide receiver, cornerback, and kickoff returner. His versatility and speed made him a standout player, earning him a spot on the University of Toledo’s football team.
At Toledo, Hawkins continued to develop his skills. He played as a wide receiver and also contributed significantly on special teams. Despite his talent, Hawkins was often overshadowed by bigger, more physically imposing players. However, his agility and quickness made him a valuable asset to the team. By the end of his college career, Hawkins had accumulated impressive stats, but he still faced an uphill battle to make it to the NFL.
The Road to the NFL
In 2008, Andrew Hawkins entered the NFL Draft but went undrafted. Despite this setback, he refused to give up on his dream. He briefly played for the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he continued to hone his skills. His perseverance paid off when he was signed by the St. Louis Rams in 2011, although he was released before the season began.
Hawkins’s break came when he was signed by the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2011, he made his NFL debut and quickly became a fan favorite due to his explosive speed and playmaking ability. Although he was often one of the smallest players on the field, standing at just 5 feet 7 inches, his determination set him apart.
Andrew Hawkins NFL Career
Cincinnati Bengals (2011-2013)
During his time with the Bengals, Hawkins made significant contributions to the team. He was known for his ability to make big plays in crucial moments. In the 2012 season, he recorded 51 receptions for 533 yards and four touchdowns. His performance showcased his potential as a reliable wide receiver, and he became an integral part of the Bengals’ offense.
Cleveland Browns (2014-2016)
In 2014, Hawkins signed with the Cleveland Browns, where he continued to impress. His best season came in his first year with the Browns, when he recorded 63 receptions for 824 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the team’s struggles, Hawkins remained a bright spot and a consistent performer on the field.
New England Patriots (2017)
Hawkins’s NFL career took another turn when he signed with the New England Patriots in 2017. Unfortunately, his time with the Patriots was short-lived. He announced his retirement from professional football before the start of the season, citing the physical toll the game had taken on his body.
Andrew Hawkins Stats and Legacy
Andrew Hawkins’s NFL career may not have been as long or as celebrated as some of his peers, but his impact was undeniable. Over his six-year NFL career, he amassed 209 receptions, 2,419 receiving yards, and nine touchdowns. These stats reflect his role as a reliable slot receiver and a player who could be counted on in key situations.
Beyond the numbers, Hawkins’s legacy is defined by his resilience and work ethic. He showed that determination and grit could overcome physical limitations and make a mark in the highly competitive world of professional football.
Life After Football
After retiring from the NFL, Andrew Hawkins transitioned into a successful career in media and broadcasting. He became an NFL analyst and co-hosted the podcast “The ThomaHawk Show” with former teammate Joe Thomas. Hawkins’s insights and engaging personality made him a natural fit for the media world, allowing him to stay connected to the sport he loved.
Hawkins also pursued further education, earning a master’s degree in sports management from Columbia University. His commitment to self-improvement and education is a testament to his drive and determination.
Conclusion
Andrew Hawkins’s journey from an undrafted player to a respected NFL wide receiver is a story of perseverance and passion. Despite facing numerous challenges, he carved out a successful career and left a lasting impact on the teams he played for. His stats may not tell the whole story, but his contributions to the game and his inspirational journey serve as a reminder that hard work and determination can lead to great achievements.
Andrew Hawkins may have experienced both the rise and fall of an NFL career, but his legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes and sports enthusiasts alike. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have, both on and off the field.