RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Nate Hawkins () - 1972 NFL Draft Pick #403 by PIT

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Nate Hawkins - 1972 NFL Draft

Nate Hawkins was a standout player at college, showcasing impressive skills that caught the attention of NFL scouts. Here’s a breakdown of his pre-draft analysis:

  • Position: Linebacker
  • College: University of Miami
  • Height: 6'1"
  • Weight: 230 lbs

Strengths:

  • Versatile Athlete: Hawkins demonstrated the ability to excel in multiple linebacker roles, making him a valuable asset for any team.
  • Strong Tackling: Known for his aggressive tackling style, he was effective in stopping ball carriers and making plays in the backfield.
  • Football Intelligence: Hawkins displayed a keen understanding of defensive schemes, allowing him to read offenses and react swiftly.
  • Leadership Qualities: His experience and maturity on the field made him a natural leader, capable of motivating teammates.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Speed: While Hawkins was a solid athlete, some scouts noted that his straight-line speed could be a concern in coverage against faster opponents.
  • Pass Coverage Skills: Improvement in his ability to cover receivers in space would enhance his overall effectiveness as a linebacker.

Projected Draft Round:

Based on his performance and potential, Nate Hawkins was projected to be selected in the 2nd to 3rd round of the 1972 NFL Draft.

Conclusion:

Nate Hawkins was recognized for his potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level, with a strong likelihood of becoming a starter within a few seasons. Teams valued his combination of physicality, intelligence, and leadership, making him a sought-after prospect in the draft.