Dawkins' fierce competitiveness, size, and strength have resulted in some of the biggest hits in the history of the Philadelphia Eagles. He covers like a cornerback and hits like a linebacker. His notable hits include poundings of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and tight end Alge Crumpler, Green Bay Packers tight end Bubba Franks, New York Giants wide receiver Ike Hilliard, and Carolina Panthers wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad.
He is one of the only players to "suplex" an opponent in a game. In 2004, the Sporting News named Brian Dawkins No. 1 on the list of “Guys You Don't Want Bearing Down On You.”
He hits clean also. Washington Redskins scout Mike Kelly says that “pound for pound, he might be the most violent guy in the league. He can generate such great speed in a confined space. He closes so rapidly and is just so physically strong. His compact size plays right into playing with leverage. He knows how to come up and through a person, bringing his hips.”
As the defensive leader for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dawkins has led the Birds to seven playoffs berths in 12 seasons. He has played in 15 postseason games, a team-record (eight wins, seven losses). He intercepted at least one pass in the postseason for four consecutive years, also forcing two fumbles.
Sports Illustrated writer Dr. Z has stated that Dawkins is one of a handful of current NFL players who are locks for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
As Brian Dawkins, now 35 years old, nears the end of his career, more and more people are asking the question: Is Brian Dawkins a Hall of Famer?
I say absolutely yes.
Dawkins has been selected to six Pro Bowls and has remained a starter throughout his entire NFL career, only missing significant time due to injury in 2003 and 2007. He has participated in more team wins than any player in the history of the Philadelphia Eagles.
He was the leader of a Philly team that won five NFC East titles, reached four consecutive NFC Championship games, and participated in Super Bowl XXXIX. He became the ninth official member of the 20/20 Club and has earned a reputation as one of the more fearsome hitters in the history of the NFL.
He was named to the Eagles' 75th Anniversary Team in 2007, and five years after his retirement, he deserves to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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