Hawkins played high school football at Rosa Fort High School in Tunica, Mississippi. He played multiple positions on the offensive and defensive lines. He was an 1st team all-district selection in 2008 and 2009. Hawkins was named team captain as a senior in 2009 when his team finished as co-district champions with a 6-5 record and appeared in the 4A playoffs.[1]
Hawkins signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on May 10, 2014 after going undrafted in the 2014 NFL draft.[4] He was released by the Eagles on August 23, 2014.[5]
Cleveland Browns
Hawkins was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns on August 25, 2014. He was released by the Browns on August 30, 2014.[5]
Dallas Cowboys
Hawkins signed with the Dallas Cowboys on August 31, 2014.[5] He was waived by the Cowboys on May 8, 2015.[6]
Miami Dolphins
Hawkins was signed by the Miami Dolphins on May 11, 2015.[7] He was released by the Dolphins on September 4 and signed to the team's practice squad on September 8, 2015.[8][4] He was released by the Dolphins on November 12, 2015.[9]
On January 26, 2016, Hawkins signed a futures contract with the Carolina Panthers.[11] He was released by the Panthers on November 25, 2016.[12]
New York Jets
On November 30, 2016, Hawkins was signed to the New York Jets' practice squad.[13] He was promoted to the active roster on December 20, 2016.[14] He was released by the Jets on May 7, 2017.[15]
Kansas City Chiefs
On June 16, 2017, Hawkins signed with the Kansas City Chiefs.[16] He was waived/injured on September 2, 2017, and placed on injured reserve.[17] He was released on November 14, 2017.
Hawkins signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the CFL on February 3, 2021.[19] He was placed on the suspended list on July 6, 2021.[20] He was released on February 14, 2023.[21]