Brad Hawkins signs as undrafted free agent

Not what was hoped, but at least he’s getting his chance! #GoBlue

Nobody has played in more Michigan football games than Brad Hawkins.

The Wolverines safety was initially a commit of the 2016 class as a wide receiver, but reclassified to the 2017 class, coming in as a defensive back. And he got to play right away, being a stalwart on special teams as he learned the ropes on defense.

Hawkins was thrust into action in 2018 when starter Josh Metellus was ejected for targeting in the first quarter of the first game at Notre Dame. He saw spot duty for the rest of the season before emerging as a starter in 2019.

With 2020 being a free year, Hawkins played, but didn’t depart afterwards, despite it being his senior year. He returned for his fifth-year without having redshirted, and had four passes broken up, as well as two forced fumbles — including the one that sealed the game for Michigan at Nebraska.

And now, though he went undrafted, the Camden, New Jersey native is NFL-bound, having signed with the Atlanta Falcons.

At the next level, Hawkins is thought of as a depth piece and special teams player.

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