When the Baltimore Ravens signed safety Jaylinn Hawkins this offseason, they knew they were getting a versatile, tough, and experienced defensive back. But ask Hawkins what truly defines his game, and he won't hesitate: it's all about making plays and getting the football.
For a team that has long built its identity on aggressive, physical defense, Hawkins' mindset fits like a glove. During a recent appearance on The Collective podcast, the new Raven broke down exactly what he wants fans to see when they watch his film.
"I make plays. I get the ball," Hawkins said. "That's something I pride myself on—the ball. It's always been a special part of my game, ever since I was young, and I want to continue that. I play with high energy, I'm out there hitting, playing tenacious defense, and having fun. Those are the key things I want people to see."
For Hawkins, creating turnovers isn't just a bonus—it's central to his role in Baltimore's defensive scheme under coordinators Jesse Minter and Anthony Weaver. The Ravens have long thrived on defenders who can change games with takeaways, and Hawkins brings exactly that ball-hawking mentality.
If he can consistently generate turnovers in 2026, Hawkins could quickly become another impactful piece in a secondary that's already known for its physicality and playmaking ability. For a Ravens defense that prides itself on being disruptive, adding a player who defines his game by creating takeaways might be the perfect fit.
