The Ravens’ biggest free-agent signing in franchise history of Trey Hendrickson, paired with the trade that wasn’t for Maxx Crosby, shouldn’t overshadow Baltimore’s other additions.
Safety Jaylinn Hawkins could turn out to be a steal for Baltimore.
Hawkins inked a two-year, reported $10 million contract after being a full-time starting safety for the AFC champion New England Patriots last season. And his new head coach beamed when asked about him at Hendrickson’s introductory press conference.
“Jaylinn had a great season this year. He was a starter for the Patriots, who obviously went all the way to the Super Bowl,” Head Coach Jesse Minter said.
“He played really well [as a] deep safety. He does a lot of different things and plays with a lot of versatility. He’s a guy that I’m really excited about.”
Hawkins led the Patriots with four interceptions last season. He was particularly strong as a deep safety in zone coverage. Per Next Gen Stats, he was targeted on 3.8% of his snaps in zone coverage, the fifth-lowest mark of any player with at least 200 snaps in zone.
In zone coverage, Hawkins surrendered just seven receptions for 62 yards. He gave up just 0.1 yards allowed per snap. According to Pro Football Focus, Hawkins was also flagged for just two penalties all last season.