Jerald Hawkins NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Steelers Rookie

POSITIVES

A two-year starter at right tackle, Jerald Hawkins moved to the left side in 2015 to replace La’el Collins. The three-year star at LSU left for the NFL after his redshirt junior season.

A long, lean tackle prospect built in the mold of former first-rounders Luke Joeckel and Jake Matthews, Hawkins uses his length and agility well to protect the edge. Unlike Joeckel, Hawkins has power in his punch and can roll back pass-rushers with his timing and impact. Hawkins doesn’t give up his inside shoulder thanks to his poise and length, and he’ll slide his feet to reset and counter secondary pass-rushing moves.

Hawkins explodes out of his snap with first-step quickness, flashing the ability to play in either a power or zone-blocking scheme. He can handle double-teams and is fine playing in a scheme that asks him to attack at the second-level.

Hawkins’ production in the LSU offense should catch the eye of teams, as he allowed just 13 total pressures in 2015, per College Football Focus. With a best fit at right tackle in the NFL, Hawkins could be a swing tackle right away with a future starter projection.

NEGATIVES

Improving his play strength will be the first order of business for Hawkins in the NFL. His smaller lower body and lack of a bubble will definitely be mentioned when his card is discussed in draft rooms. With an hourglass build, Hawkins just doesn’t have the hips or rear-end to generate big power.

Hawkins doesn’t show up as a natural bender in pass protection. He plays straight-up and likes to rely on his length and ability to move his feet to beat SEC pass-rushers. That works some of the time but is an issue that pro-level talent will pick up and exploited.

The speed of Hawkins’ punch will be addressed early in his career, as he doesn’t have the quick jab to rock back a pass-rusher right out of the gate.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'6"

Weight: 305 lbs.

40 Time: 5.23s

Arm Length: 34 ¼"

3-Cone: 8.19s

Short Shuttle: 4.89s

PRO COMPARISON: Donald Stephenson, Denver Broncos
FINAL GRADE: 6.50/9.00 (Round 2—Future Starter)