Georgia Tech’s Jackson Hawes drafted by Buffalo Bills

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated Apr 28, 2025 6:23 PM ET

You won’t find Jackson Hawes’ name lighting up fantasy football boards, but ask any offensive coordinator what wins games in December, and they’ll tell you: physicality, grit, and blocking. That’s exactly what the Buffalo Bills got when they selected Georgia Tech tight end Jackson Hawes with the 173rd pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

A Georgia Tech Anchor Turns Pro

After transferring from Yale and anchoring the edge for Georgia Tech in 2024, Hawes quickly became one of the most respected blocking tight ends in the ACC. At 6-foot-5 and 257 pounds, the 24-year-old carved out a role not through flashy stats, but with consistent, punishing play at the line. In 12 games, he caught just 16 passes for 195 yards—but his blocking earned him a 74.7 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus. That’s what got Buffalo’s attention.

The Fit in Buffalo

The Bills didn’t need another pass-catching tight end with Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox already in the room. What they lacked was a true Y-tight end who could open lanes for Josh Allen’s run game and protect in heavy sets. “He’s going to move folks in the run game,” one analyst noted, and that’s exactly the plan. Hawes is a plug-and-play TE3 who could make the 53-man roster on his blocking alone—and maybe contribute on special teams, too.

From the Flats to the League

Georgia Tech fans watched Hawes grow from a steady transfer into a cornerstone of the Yellow Jackets’ run game. His style doesn’t show up in highlight reels, but teammates and coaches knew how crucial he was. “He’s the guy doing the dirty work,” said one Georgia Tech assistant. “That’s who Jackson is.”

For Tech fans, Hawes’ selection is a badge of honor. It’s proof that toughness, intelligence, and fundamentals still matter at the next level. Bookmark this name. He may not be the flashiest draft pick, but he could be one of the most important.

Georgia Tech built him. Buffalo’s banking on him.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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