Former UofL running back Javian Hawkins was cut earlier this week by the Atlanta Falcons despite a pretty good preseason performance. However, he’s landed on his feet and he’s teammates with Dez Fitzpatrick again as he has been signed by the Tennessee Titans per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Titans are signing free-agent rookie running back Javian Hawkins, who was recently waived by the Falcons, per his agent @DrewJRosenhaus .
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 26, 2021
It’s actually a good fit for the undrafted free agent rookie. Hawkins can be a nice piece for the Titans as a complimentary back to Derrick Henry. Henry is a big, bruising back while Hawkins can be a change-of-pace back with speed and elusiveness.
In the preseason, Hawkins played in two games for the Falcons, rushing for 48 yards on 10 carries. He averaged 4.8 yards per carry and broke a 30-yard run in the second preseason game against Miami.
At Louisville, Hawkins was one of the best backs in the history of the school. He rushed for 2355 yards and 16 TDs as a Card, averaging 5.9 yards per carry. He accumulated these stats in just 24 games during his 3-year career. Any time he touched the football, he was a threat to make big gains.
Hopefully, this deal is for Hawkins to make the opening day Titans roster. His ability to make big gains every time he touches the ball and probably contribute as a kick returner on special teams could bode well for him making the 53-man roster. Even if he does get assigned to the practice squad, I think his ability will mean he can still find his way on to the Titans at some point in an 18-game season still being played in a pandemic. It’s a good spot for Javian and Card Nation will definitely be hoping to see him suit up in Nashville.
