Ben Hawkins (College Stats) - 1966 NFL Draft Pick #36 by PHI
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Ben Hawkins - 1966 NFL Draft
Player Profile:
Ben Hawkins
Position: Wide Receiver
College: University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
College Career Highlights:
- Notable for exceptional speed and agility on the field.
- Demonstrated strong hands and reliable catching ability.
- Played a key role in Ole Miss's offensive strategies.
- Accumulated impressive receiving yards and touchdowns during his college tenure.
Strengths:
- Speed: Hawkins was known for his exceptional breakaway speed, allowing him to stretch the field and create separation from defenders.
- Route Running: His ability to run precise routes made him a consistent target for quarterbacks.
- Versatility: Hawkins had the ability to play in multiple offensive schemes, making him a valuable asset for any team.
- Football IQ: Demonstrated a strong understanding of defensive coverages, allowing him to exploit mismatches.
Areas for Improvement:
- Physicality: While skilled, Hawkins needed to enhance his physical play against more aggressive NFL defenders.
- Blocking Skills: Developing better blocking skills could improve his overall value, especially in run-heavy offenses.
Draft Projection:
Ben Hawkins was projected to be a mid-round pick in the 1966 NFL Draft, with teams coveting his potential to become a dynamic playmaker. His collegiate performances had established him as a promising talent, and scouts were optimistic about his transition to the professional level.
Conclusion:
Hawkins entered the draft as an intriguing prospect with the potential to make a significant impact. If he could refine his skills and adapt to the NFL's level of competition, he had the chance to become a key contributor to an NFL offense.