Michigan Wolverines Football: Hawkins Settling In At Safety

Sophomore safety Brad Hawkins came to Michigan as a wide receiver.

A good one at that.

At Suffield Academy for a prep year, Hawkins had 51 receptions for 868 yards and 11 touchdowns.

But as a Wolverine, Hawkins switched to the defensive side of the ball and through five games of the season, has begun to get up to speed.

"Things are obviously a lot faster on the field, especially in-game," Hawkins said. "There's a lot of movement, so I'm learning a lot. I'm think I'm catching on pretty fast and I think I'm doing a great job."

Prior to the season, Hawkins worked with junior defensive back Josh Metellus and senior safety Tyree Kinnell.

“They helped me a lot, especially in the offseason,” Hawkins said. “We worked out together in the off-season. And they just helped me with the play calling. They definitely played a big part in my success this season.”

The work has paid off.

In the last two games, Hawkins has played well. Against Nebraska, he played in 29 snaps and had the ninth best defensive grade per PFF. Against Northwestern, he played in 29 snaps again and earned an above-average grade per PFF.

Hawkins has recovered from the season opener where he was on the wrong end of a Notre Dame Hail Mary touchdown. Heading into the Maryland game, Hawkins has 16 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss and one pass breakup.

Part of the learning process has been aided by learning from defensive coordinator Don Brown.

"Playing in coach Brown's defense, it's something very difficult but something that helps you as a player," Hawkins said. "I learned a lot of different schemes. I learned a lot about defense period. I didn't play that much defense before I got to college, but I mean it's different. I'm getting used to it."

Hawkins has improved as the season reaches the halfway point. He’s shown the ability to spell more experienced players and play well.

He still gets to gets his hand on the ball sometimes.

"That's actually the only chance I got right now, kick return," Hawkins said. "When they kick it my way."

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