Hawkins was selected to play in the 2012 CalState 5-Star All-Star game in addition to earning recognition as a San Bernardino all-state and second-team all-baseline league. As a senior, Hawkins had 54 total tackles, three interceptions, one sack, two forced fumbles and 14 passes defensed. He missed his junior season because of an injury.

He’s been focusing on technique. “I improved on my footwork, my speed and my man on man coverage. … I had the chance to guard some of the top players in the area, not just from Rancho.”

Petrino said Hawkins is the prototype defensive back. “He has great acceleration, good change of direction, good cover skills and is a good tackler. He just has all the traits that you want to see in the secondary. We’re very excited to have him.”