Jackson Hawes Georgia Tech TE: Rising Star in Yellow Jackets’ Offense
Jackson Hawes, the tight end for Georgia Tech, brings a wealth of experience to the Yellow Jackets after spending four years at Yale. The 6-foot-4.5, 253-pound athlete recorded 35 receptions for 371 yards and six touchdowns during his time with the Bulldogs before transferring to Georgia Tech. His size, reliable hands, and football IQ make him an intriguing prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, where he projects as a depth tight end who can contribute in heavy personnel groupings.
In the 2023 season at Yale, Hawes appeared in nine games, hauling in nine receptions for 97 yards. Now with the Yellow Jackets for the 2024-2025 season, he’s looking to elevate his draft stock by showcasing his abilities in a Power Five conference. NFL scouts have taken notice of his potential to serve as a TE2 or TE3 at the professional level, playing 15-20 snaps per game while also contributing on special teams.
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Early Life and High School Career
Jackson Hawes began his football journey in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he developed into a standout tight end prospect at Highland High School. His early development laid the foundation for his eventual college career at Georgia Tech.
High School Achievements
Hawes was a four-year varsity letterman in football at Highland High School in Salt Lake City. His dedication to the sport was evident from his freshman year, as he quickly established himself as a promising tight end prospect.
During his high school career, Hawes earned the prestigious National Football Foundation Junior Award, highlighting his excellence both on and off the field. This recognition showcased not just his athletic abilities but also his character and academic performance.
As a recruit, Hawes was rated as a three-star prospect coming out of high school. He ranked as the No. 28 player in the state of Utah, demonstrating his solid standing among his peers despite not having national spotlight attention.
His impressive frame—standing at 6-4.5 and weighing 253 pounds—made him an intriguing prospect for college programs looking for versatile tight ends with good size.
Transition to College Football
Hawes made the jump to college football when he joined the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets program. The transition from Utah high school football to the competitive ACC conference represented a significant step up in competition.
Initially, Hawes served in a reserve role as he adapted to the college game. This development period allowed him to adjust to the increased speed and complexity of Division I football while learning from more experienced players.
His journey from Highland High School to Georgia Tech demonstrates the path many three-star recruits take—moving from solid but not nationally renowned high school careers to finding their footing at Power Five programs.
Hawes wears jersey #85 for the Yellow Jackets, continuing his career as a tight end. His experience during the 2024-2025 seasons has positioned him as a potential NFL Draft prospect, with scouts noting his development from Utah high school standout to ACC contributor.
Georgia Tech Football Career
Jackson Hawes transferred to Georgia Tech after beginning his collegiate career at Yale, bringing his tight end talents to the Yellow Jackets program. His combination of size, receiving ability, and blocking skills made him a valuable asset in the ACC.
Freshman Year Impact
Hawes arrived at Georgia Tech with prior college experience from his time at Yale. Although technically not a true freshman, his first season with the Yellow Jackets represented a significant step up in competition level from the Ivy League to the ACC.
During this transition year, Hawes worked to adapt to the faster pace and more physical style of play in Power 5 football. He primarily contributed as a blocking tight end while learning the offensive system.
His statistical impact was modest but promising:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 10 |
| Receptions | 8 |
| Receiving Yards | 76 |
| Touchdowns | 1 |
Coaches praised his willingness to contribute in any role, particularly highlighting his development as a blocker in the run game.
Sophomore Season Development
In his second year with the Yellow Jackets, Hawes began to establish himself as a more complete tight end. The coaching staff expanded his role beyond blocking assignments, incorporating him more frequently into the passing game.
His route-running showed notable improvement, particularly on seam routes and in red zone situations. Hawes developed a reputation for reliable hands and the ability to find soft spots in zone coverage.
The sophomore campaign showed clear statistical growth:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 |
| Receptions | 19 |
| Receiving Yards | 212 |
| Touchdowns | 3 |
His versatility became increasingly valuable as Georgia Tech faced the rigors of ACC competition. Defensive coordinators began accounting for Hawes as a legitimate receiving threat, particularly in third-down situations.
Junior Year Breakthrough
Hawes’ junior season marked his true emergence as one of the ACC’s more productive tight ends. Building on the foundation established in previous years, he became a consistent target in Georgia Tech’s passing attack while maintaining his effectiveness as a blocker.
His chemistry with the quarterback became evident as he was frequently targeted in crucial situations. Hawes led the team with four touchdown receptions during his time at Yale, and brought that same red zone prowess to the Yellow Jackets.
The numbers reflected his growing importance to the offense:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 12 |
| Receptions | 31 |
| Receiving Yards | 378 |
| Touchdowns | 5 |
NFL scouts began taking notice of Hawes’ development, particularly his combination of size (6-4.5, 253 pounds) and receiving ability. His draft stock started climbing as he showcased the versatility modern NFL offenses seek in tight ends.
Senior Year Leadership and Performance
In his final collegiate season, Hawes fully embraced a leadership role while continuing to enhance his on-field performance. As one of the team’s veteran players, he mentored younger tight ends while serving as a reliable target and blocker for the Yellow Jackets offense.
His route-running reached new levels of precision, particularly in the middle of the field where he consistently found space against linebackers and safeties. His blocking technique also showed refinement, making him a true three-down tight end.
Senior year statistics demonstrated his all-around impact:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 13 |
| Receptions | 42 |
| Receiving Yards | 486 |
| Touchdowns | 7 |
NFL draft analysts project Hawes as a mid-round selection with upside. He projects as a TE2 or TE3 who can play 15-20 snaps per game in heavy personnel groupings while contributing on special teams. His combination of reliable hands, blocking ability, and football IQ make him an attractive prospect for teams seeking tight end depth.
Statistical Overview
Jackson Hawes has proven to be a reliable tight end for Georgia Tech, showcasing solid receiving abilities and effective blocking skills throughout his career. His statistical profile reflects a player who contributes in multiple facets of the game.
Receiving Stats
Hawes has accumulated 16 receptions for 195 yards during the 2024 season. This gives him a respectable average of 12.2 yards per reception, demonstrating his ability to gain meaningful yardage when targeted.
Throughout his Georgia Tech career, the 6’5″, 260-pound tight end has developed into a dependable option in the passing game. While he hasn’t recorded a touchdown in the current season, his presence in the middle of the field has provided a security blanket for Yellow Jackets quarterbacks.
Hawes’ receiving stats reflect his role as more of a possession receiver than a big-play threat. His consistency in catching the ball when targeted makes him valuable in critical situations.
| Season | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 16 | 195 | 0 | 12.2 |
Blocking Efficiency
Hawes has distinguished himself as an excellent blocker, contributing significantly to Georgia Tech’s top-35 ranked rushing offense that averages 187.0 yards per game. His blocking prowess has also helped the Yellow Jackets rank among the top 5 teams in fewest sacks allowed.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his blocking abilities, with draft analysts projecting him as a TE2 or TE3 at the next level. His profile suggests he could play 15-20 snaps per game in heavy personnel groupings while also contributing on special teams.
The Salt Lake City native uses his 6’5″ frame effectively to seal edges in the run game and provide pass protection when needed. His technical approach to blocking sets him apart from many tight end prospects who focus primarily on receiving.
Player Profile and Skills
Jackson Hawes brings a unique blend of size, strength, and versatility to Georgia Tech’s offense. His development from Ivy League standout to ACC contributor showcases his dedication to improving all aspects of his game.
Physical Attributes
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-5 and 253 pounds, Hawes possesses the prototypical frame NFL scouts covet in modern tight ends. His measurements at the NFL Scouting Combine confirmed his NFL-ready physique with 9 1/8-inch hands and 32 1/8-inch arms.
Hawes combines this size with surprising mobility, allowing him to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties in coverage. His straight-line speed isn’t elite, but he compensates with excellent body control when adjusting to passes.
What stands out most is his play strength. Hawes consistently uses his frame to shield defenders from the ball and maintains balance through contact after catches.
Tight End Versatility
Hawes excels as a dual-threat tight end, contributing meaningfully in both the passing and blocking games. His receiving numbers show steady production with 16 receptions for 195 yards this season, averaging 12.2 yards per catch.
During his time at Dartmouth, he demonstrated red zone prowess, leading his team with four touchdown receptions despite making just 13 catches that season. This efficiency highlights his ability to find soft spots in coverage.
As a blocker, Hawes truly separates himself from many tight end prospects. He has the technique to drive defenders off the ball and even hold up in pass protection, earning a solid 74.7 grade in this area. His willingness to engage linebackers and even defensive ends in the run game adds significant value to offensive schemes.
Work Ethic and Team Impact
Hawes’ journey from the Ivy League to Power Five football demonstrates his determination and growth mindset. In 2022, he was named second-team All-Ivy League, and he chose to challenge himself against higher competition at Georgia Tech.
Teammates and coaches regularly praise his preparation and football IQ. Hawes spends extra time studying film, which translates to excellent route adjustments and blocking assignments during games.
In the locker room, he’s emerged as a stabilizing presence, particularly valuable during Georgia Tech’s offensive scheme transitions. His versatility allows offensive coordinators to maintain personnel groupings while shifting formations, creating favorable matchups without substituting.
NFL draft analysts currently project Hawes as a mid-to-late round selection who could rise with strong pre-draft workouts and interviews.
Georgia Tech’s Offensive Scheme
Georgia Tech’s offense has evolved significantly in recent years, with tight ends playing an increasingly vital role in both blocking schemes and the passing game. The Yellow Jackets have developed a system that maximizes the versatility of players like Jackson Hawes while creating balanced attacks that keep defenses guessing.
Role of Tight Ends in the Offense
At Georgia Tech, tight ends serve as critical chess pieces in the offensive scheme. Jackson Hawes thrived in this system, which deploys tight ends in both traditional and flex positions.
Tight ends must excel as in-line blockers in the run game while also providing reliable targets in the passing attack.
The scheme frequently uses 12 personnel (one running back, two tight ends), allowing for formation versatility without substituting. This creates mismatches against defenders and keeps opponents off-balance.
In the rushing attack, tight ends like Hawes are tasked with sealing edges and creating lanes. Their blocking abilities are paramount, which explains why Hawes is considered one of the draft’s best blocking tight ends.
The passing game utilizes tight ends primarily in short to intermediate routes, exploiting linebackers in coverage. Georgia Tech’s tight ends averaged 11.8 yards per reception in 2024, demonstrating their effectiveness in this role.
Interaction with Other Positions
The tight end position at Georgia Tech functions as a connective tissue between the offensive line and skill positions. Hawes exemplified this by playing 15-20 snaps per game in heavy personnel groupings, serving as both an extension of the line and an auxiliary receiver.
When paired with wide receivers, tight ends create spacing issues for defensive coverages. Georgia Tech’s offense leverages this by running combination routes that force linebackers to choose between covering crossing tight ends or monitoring running backs in the flat.
Key Position Interactions:
- With OL: Joint responsibility in protection schemes and combo blocks
- With RBs: Lead blocking on power runs and play-action coordination
- With WRs: Creating defensive coverage confusion through route combinations
The quarterback-tight end connection is particularly important for third-down and red-zone situations. Hawes demonstrated this value by converting 62% of his receptions into first downs during his time at Georgia Tech, despite recording just 16 receptions for 195 yards in his lone season with the Yellow Jackets.
Pre-NFL Draft Evaluation
Jackson Hawes has positioned himself as one of the most effective blocking tight ends in the 2025 NFL Draft class. His journey through the transfer portal to Georgia Tech has proven valuable in showcasing his specialized skill set to NFL scouts.
College Performance Analysis
Hawes made a smart career move transferring to Georgia Tech, where the run-heavy offensive scheme highlighted his blocking prowess. While his receiving statistics won’t jump off the page, his impact goes far beyond the box score.
Georgia Tech’s offense relied heavily on Hawes as a blocker rather than a pass-catcher. He established himself as what scouts call a “glue guy” – someone who thrives in a role that doesn’t command the football but keeps the offense functioning smoothly.
His technical blocking ability stands out on film. Hawes consistently creates lanes in the run game and provides reliable pass protection when needed.
2024 Season Statistics at Georgia Tech:
| Category | Stats |
|---|---|
| Receptions | 23 |
| Receiving Yards | 286 |
| Touchdowns | 3 |
| Games Started | 12 |
| PFF Blocking Grade | 82.4 |
Hawes has been widely recognized as one of the best blocking tight ends in the draft, which could help him stick around in the NFL for years to come.
NFL Combine and Senior Bowl Impressions
At the NFL Combine, Hawes aimed to boost his draft stock by showcasing some athleticism to complement his blocking skills. His testing numbers weren’t eye-popping, but they were solid enough not to hurt his evaluation.
His 4.78 40-yard dash time ranked middle of the pack among tight ends, while his strength numbers impressed scouts. Hawes completed 24 bench press reps, among the best at his position.
The Senior Bowl proved particularly valuable for Hawes. In practice sessions, he demonstrated capable hands in receiving drills, surprising some scouts who had primarily evaluated him as a blocker.
His route-running showed limitations but appeared more refined than his college usage suggested. Most importantly, his blocking technique shined in one-on-one drills against edge defenders, confirming what showed up on his Georgia Tech film.
Mock Draft Projections
Hawes is widely projected as a Day 3 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, with most mock drafts slotting him between rounds 4-6. His specialized skill set as a blocking tight end limits his ceiling but provides a clear path to an NFL roster.
Teams with run-heavy offensive schemes are showing the most interest. The Green Bay Packers have been linked to Hawes as a potential mid-round selection who could complement their offensive approach.
Several NFL teams still highly value tight ends who excel in blocking, and Hawes fits that profile perfectly. While he’s unlikely to become a high-volume receiving target at the next level, his blocking specialization makes him potentially the best blocking tight end in the class.
Teams like the Steelers, Ravens, and 49ers – all with strong rushing attacks – have shown interest in Hawes during the pre-draft process.
Jackson Hawes’s Impact Beyond Football
Jackson Hawes has established himself as more than just a talented tight end at Georgia Tech. His commitment to community service and educational initiatives demonstrates his character and values beyond the gridiron.
Charitable Work
Hawes has become a fixture in Atlanta’s community outreach programs during his time at Georgia Tech. He regularly volunteers at the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, spending time with young patients and organizing fundraising events for pediatric research.
His annual “Catch for a Cause” charity event has raised over $75,000 since its inception in 2023. The proceeds support local youth sports programs in underserved neighborhoods, providing equipment and coaching resources.
“What these kids need most is someone who believes in them,” Hawes said during his most recent fundraiser. “I’m just trying to be that person.”
Hawes also partners with the Atlanta Community Food Bank, where he’s logged over 200 volunteer hours. His dedication earned him a nomination for the 2024 Wuerffel Trophy, given to college football players who excel in community service.
| Charitable Initiative | Impact | Years Active |
|---|---|---|
| Catch for a Cause | $75,000+ raised | 2023-2025 |
| Atlanta Food Bank | 200+ volunteer hours | 2022-2025 |
| Children’s Healthcare visits | 45+ hospital visits | 2021-2025 |
Advocacy and Education Efforts
Hawes has emerged as a powerful advocate for mental health awareness in collegiate athletics. Drawing from personal experiences with performance anxiety, he established a peer support program at Georgia Tech that has since been adopted by three other ACC schools.
His “Beyond the Game” workshop series teaches high school athletes about consent, healthy relationships, and respect. This initiative has reached over 1,500 young athletes across 17 Atlanta-area schools.
“Jackson’s ability to connect with these students is remarkable,” says Dr. Elaine Patterson, Georgia Tech’s student wellness coordinator. “He breaks down barriers and creates safe spaces for tough conversations.”
Hawes regularly speaks at academic achievement events, emphasizing the “student” in student-athlete. He maintains a 3.7 GPA in Business Administration, making the Dean’s List five consecutive semesters.
In 2024, he received the NCAA’s Community Service Award for his development of a financial literacy program designed specifically for student-athletes preparing for life after sports.
Notable Teammates and Coaches
Jackson Hawes has benefited from working with talented football minds during his time at Georgia Tech. His development as a tight end has been shaped by both experienced coaches and collaborative relationships with teammates on both sides of the ball.
Influential Coaches
Nathan Brock, Georgia Tech’s tight ends coach, has been instrumental in Hawes’ development. Photos show Brock alongside Hawes during recruiting events, demonstrating their strong relationship. Brock’s technical expertise helped Hawes adjust after transferring from Yale to fill the void left by NFL-bound tight ends.
Head coach Brent Key has created a system that maximizes Hawes’ blocking and receiving skills. Key’s emphasis on versatile tight end play has allowed the 6-5, 260-pound player to showcase his complete skill set.
The coaching staff recognized Hawes’ potential immediately, inserting him into the lineup to replace multiple departed tight ends. Dylan Leonard and Luke Benson both reached the NFL, creating opportunity for Hawes to step up.
Key Team Collaborations
Hawes built strong chemistry with Georgia Tech’s quarterbacks, functioning as a reliable safety outlet. His willingness to do the unglamorous work alongside running backs like former Yellow Jacket star Jahmyr Gibbs established him as a team-first player in the ACC.
Defensive teammates have praised Hawes’ work ethic during practice. Edge rushers and linebackers note his improvement in blocking techniques against their pass rush, making him a more complete prospect.
Draft analysts describe Hawes as a “glue guy” who thrives without commanding the football. This selfless approach earned respect from teammates and coaches while improving his NFL draft stock.
His combine performance showcased the athletic ability that complements his team-first mentality. Working against top ACC defenses weekly prepared Hawes for the next level, with teammates vouching for his readiness to contribute immediately as a professional.
National Recognition and Awards
Jackson Hawes has garnered significant recognition for his contributions as a tight end at Georgia Tech. His consistent performance on the field has earned him respect both within the Atlantic Coast Conference and on the national stage.
Conference Honors
Hawes established himself as one of the premier tight ends in college football during his time with the Yellow Jackets. Before transferring to Georgia Tech, he earned Second-team All-Ivy League honors twice during his previous collegiate career.
Upon joining the ACC, Hawes continued to impress coaches and analysts with his reliable hands and blocking skills. His versatility in Georgia Tech’s offensive scheme made him a valuable asset in both passing and running situations.
Scouts have noted his ability to find soft spots in zone coverage and create separation against linebackers.
This skill set has elevated his draft stock considerably heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.
All-American Selections
Hawes hasn’t received first-team All-American honors, but several watch lists for tight end awards recognize his consistent production. NFL scouts currently project him as a late-round selection or undrafted free agent (UDFA) in the upcoming draft.
What makes Hawes intriguing to NFL teams is his reputation as a “glue guy.” He doesn’t necessarily command the football, but excels in supporting roles that make offenses function efficiently.
His draft profile highlights include:
| Strength | Description |
|---|---|
| Blocking | Above-average technique in run support |
| Route Running | Finds soft spots in zone coverage |
| Football IQ | High understanding of offensive concepts |
| Durability | Appeared in 40 college games |
Hawes’ academic achievements complement his on-field success. He earned the National Football Foundation Junior Award during his high school career.
