The Florida Gators football program is renowned for its dynamic playmakers, and their newest recruit, Jerrae “Tank” Hawkins, is quickly making waves with his exceptional speed and versatility. He is already being compared to Gators legend Percy Harvin, setting high expectations for the true freshman.
Hawkins’ speed is more than just hype; it’s measurable. He ran an impressive 6.70 seconds in the 60-meter dash, placing him among elite NFL speedsters like Tyreek Hill. Even more remarkable, Hawkins recorded a blazing 4.37 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
His speed, evident since his arrival in Gainesville, comes as no surprise to those familiar with his recruitment. As a junior in high school, he ran the 100-meter dash in 10.37 seconds.
These figures have the Gators’ coaching staff excited about his potential. Although he was quiet during Florida’s spring game, reports from spring camp indicated that Hawkins was outpacing the secondary. Even if he doesn’t make the primary wide receiver rotation in 2024, he could still return kicks for the Gators this season.
Like any young player, Hawkins will face a learning curve. He will need to adjust to the faster pace and greater complexity of the college game. His route running, defensive reading, and overall football IQ must catch up to his physical talents.
Despite these challenges, Hawkins’ potential as a game-changer is undeniable. His speed alone will force defenses to account for him on every play, potentially creating opportunities for his teammates. As he hones his skills, Hawkins could become a nightmare for opposing coordinators.
Looking ahead, Hawkins’ development will be a key storyline for the Gators. If he can combine his natural speed with improved technique and football intelligence, he has the potential to be a true difference-maker.
