War Room analysis
Strengths: Shows terrific awareness and instincts. Reads blocking schemes well, and recognizes plays quickly. Is a smart, aggressive player who takes excellent angles to the ball. Closes swiftly, and explodes through contact. Does not miss tackles in the open field. Is a tough, experienced leader. Has the speed and quickness to cover running backs and tight ends in man-to-man coverage. Shows range and discipline in zone drops. Is a fearless blitzer. Is a playmaker.
Weaknesses: Durability is a minor concern stemming back to his high school days. Is slow to recover from mistakes in coverage. Lacks premier lower-body strength. Struggles to overcome big blockers in the running game. Is not a hole-plugger.
Bottom line: Hawk is the best linebacker in college football. He is a consistent playmaker, and opponents must account for him on every snap. His intelligence, ability and passion are textbook for a linebacker. If he can consistently handle bigger blockers in the running game and has no injuries, Hawk might be the first outside linebacker drafted. He could be a top-10 pick.
Dan Pompei analysis
Tough linebacker who always is around the ball. Has been productive for four years. Good cover 'backer with athleticism. Isn't as explosive as some.
News
Hawk decided at the last minute to pull out of the Senior Bowl.
