The New England Patriots signed former Atlanta Falcons and Los Angeles Chargers safety Jaylinn Hawkins on Thursday, per a report from NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
Hawkins was drafted by the Falcons in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL draft. He spent four seasons with the team before being waived in October 2023. He was officially claimed off waivers by the Chargers a day after his release. He recorded 14 combined tackles last season between the two teams.
New England is already strong at the safety position with players like Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers expected to lead the way. However, depth is important, and Hawkins would be able to provide that for the Patriots.
He is also only 26 years old, which could allow him additional time to develop at the position.
Screwed that one up. The #Patriots are signing former #Falcons and #Chargers S Jaylinn Hawkins, sources say. Not the #Panthers, as I’d previously posted. Misread a text. Apologies on that one.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 21, 2024
New England’s offseason has been about retaining the talent they have, as well as taking care of loose ends. Hawkins is a smart addition to an already loaded safety room.