2021 NFL Draft: Do not sleep on Louisville RB Javian Hawkins

Javian Hawkins is undoubtedly an exciting 2021 NFL Draft prospect who fits the modern game well.

Louisville running back Javian Hawkins is quickly becoming one of the most exciting offensive playmakers in college football and needs to be taken seriously as a 2021 NFL Draft prospect. Last weekend, in a 47-34 loss to Miami, Hawkins was the bulk of the Louisville offense, piling up 164 yards and a touchdown on 27 carries. Through two games, Hawkins is fourth in the FBS in rushing yards and appears to be set up for a massive season.

The gifted running back prospect is listed at 5-foot-9, 196 pounds and his lack of size may limit his upside at the next level. That being said, Hawkins feels like a perfect back to have a major impact in a committee.

When watching Hawkins, his short-area quickness and raw speed immediately stand out. He has legitimately elite lateral agility and fantastic natural burst through the hole. Once Hawkins finds a crease, he kicks it into high gear quickly and is off to the races. His acceleration and speed in the open field stands out in a big way and makes him a legitimate threat to score from anywhere on the field.

Hawkins is talented, but not perfect

Hawkins is undoubtedly an elite playmaker with the ball in his hands. He is an extremely slippery ball carrier and has speed for days. NFL coaches should already be salivating at the thought of scheming Hawkins touches in space at the next level. However, if he is ever going to reach his full upside, Hawkins simply must become more of a threat as a pass-catcher.

Right now, this part of his game is basically non-existent. As the feature back for Louisville last season, Hawkins only caught four passes on the year, and he only has one catch through two games this season. His ability to be a weapon in the passing game at the next level will be extremely important.

Running backs his size cannot just take handoffs in the NFL. His team must be able to scheme touches for him in space and being a receiver out of the backfield will be a major part of those opportunities.

That being said, there is no denying Hawkins’ raw talent on the field. He is a truly special player with the ball in his hands, and his speed and elusiveness will undoubtedly play at the next level. In today’s NFL, most teams are looking to put together a committee of running backs who can impact the game in different ways.

Hawkins is never going to be a bell cow guy, but he is a talented 2021 NFL Draft prospect who has a high ceiling at the next level. Improving his passing-game prowess will be key, but Hawkins is a potentially special play-maker who is worthy of an investment.