Chargers News: Atlanta Coach Praises New Bolt Jaylinn Hawkins After Cutting Him

Jaylinn Hawkins gets love from his former coach, despite being cut.

Former Atlanta Falcons safety Jaylinn Hawkins found himself in a tough spot when he was serving in a backup role this season, only to be waived.

Your Los Angeles Chargers were quick to hit the waiver wire, to secure Hawkins' services. The Bolts currently have a depleted backfield, and adding Hawkins could not have come at a better time. 

Though he was waived by the Falcons, former head coach Arthur Smith had nothing but good things to say about the 26-year-old safety. 

Hawkins finds himself in a more advantageous position being picked up by the Chargers, as they are currently entering Sunday's important matchup already down star safety Derwin James. 

James suffered an ankle injury that set his status for tomorrow's game as "questionable." It is highly unlikely that James can suit up, making it even more crucial that Hawkins is ready to go. 

Fans might have questioned this move, initially, but Arthur Smith heaped praise on the young safety. 

Arthur Smith on releasing Jaylinn Hawkins: "I have a lot of respect for Hawk. I wish him the best in future." ... "Circumstances change."

Added it's an opportunity for someone like Micah Abernathy.

— Tori McElhaney (@tori_mcelhaney) October 18, 2023

The respect that Smith has for Hawkins will hopefully help boost his confidence in an important bout with the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs feature a pass-happy attack that is anchored by star tight end Travis Kelce. 

James being out also places a significant stranglehold on the secondary, as his coverage makes Kelce three times less effective in the passing game.

With James out, including Alohi Gilman, and JT Woods—the secondary will need all the help they can get to stop the Chiefs from using their many air attack options. 

The Chiefs also recently brought back former wide receiver Mecole Hardman. Hardman played with the Chiefs for four seasons before being sent off to the Jets. Hardman may be behind Kadarius Toney on the depth chart, but his speed could turn him into a much-needed deep threat for Mahomes. 

Hawkins was brought on as secondary and special teams help but with so many injuries to the backfield of the Chargers defense—he will need to be thrown into the proverbial fire immediately. 

Hawkins is also in the last year of his rookie contract. Should impress the Chargers, he could see a decent contract come his way by the season's end.

The hope now is that Hawkins can find his footing early and prevent the Bolts from falling to a 2-4 record, which could put a stamp on their would-be playoff hopes. 

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