Buffalo Bills reportedly met with Louisville RB Javian Hawkins

The Buffalo Bills certainly appear to be putting a great deal of focus on the running back early in the draft process. After reported meetings with University of Buffalo’s Jaret Patterson and University of Virginia Shane Simpson, they also have met with University of Louisville Javian Hawkins, according to Justin Melo of The Draft Network.

In three seasons with Louisville, Hawkins had 399 rushing attempts, 2,355 rushing yards, and 16 rushing touchdowns. He also had 21 receptions, 189 receiving yards, and one receiving touchdown.

The best season he had was in 2019 when he ran for 1,525 rushing yards but he actually more efficient this past season with his yards per carry increasing to 6.2 from 5.8 yards per carry in 2019.

This past year he also showed off more ability in the passing game with 16 of his 21 receptions coming in 2020.

The meeting with Javian Hawkins by the Buffalo Bills is certainly an interesting one because he brings what they likely need the most. The Bills have drafted Devin Singletary and Zack Moss in the third round in consecutive drafts but neither has that breakaway, big play type speed. As Joe Marino of The Draft Network wrote in his scouting report for Hawkins, this is certainly something has plenty of.

"Hawkins is a niche player, but his ability to produce big plays and add a speed dynamic gives him a chance at the next level."

If the Buffalo Bills were to add a player like Hawkins he would likely be a third running back option and not necessarily a replacement for Devin Singletary. At 5’9″ and 196 pounds, he probably is more of a situational back but when considering how many teams have shown interest in him, he appears like a player that may move up the team’s draft boards.

It remains to be seen if the Buffalo Bills will be drafting a running back but considering how many they have already reportedly met with, it appears that this is a position they will want to address this offseason.