Bills' Rookie Sensation! Jackson Hawes Shocks NFL After Just Two Weeks!
The Buffalo Bills may have unearthed a hidden gem in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. Tight end Jackson Hawes is turning heads and exceeding expectations just two weeks into the season. While other rookies are still finding their footing, Hawes is already making a significant impact on the field.
Hawes: The NFL's Highest-Graded Rookie
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Jackson Hawes is the highest-graded rookie in the entire NFL. This is a remarkable feat, especially considering he's playing behind established tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox. But Hawes's performance has been so impressive that some argue he's been the best tight end on the Bills' roster so far.
Blocking Prowess and Receiving Touch
Hawes's success isn't just about luck. He's earned it with his exceptional blocking skills. PFF also ranks him as the second-best run blocker among tight ends, trailing only his teammate Dawson Knox. Veteran offensive tackle Dion Dawkins has even gone so far as to call Hawes "one of the best blockers you will see in this game."
But Hawes is more than just a blocker. He's also demonstrated his ability to catch the ball, hauling in a crucial 29-yard reception in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens. As Hawes himself said, "When we called that play, I was really just like, ‘OK, this is the play we’re running,’ and that was kind of it… the athleticism just took over.”
Intelligence and Adaptability
Hawes's quick adaptation to the NFL game can be attributed to his intelligence and work ethic. Before transferring to Georgia Tech, he spent five years at Yale, honing his ability to study and learn quickly. This academic background has given him a significant advantage in understanding the complexities of the NFL playbook.
The Future is Bright
While it's still early in the season, Jackson Hawes has already shown that he has the potential to be a star in the NFL. His combination of blocking prowess, receiving skills, and intelligence makes him a valuable asset to the Buffalo Bills. Keep an eye on this rookie; he's just getting started.