Buffalo Bills Draft Georgia Tech Tight End Jackson Hawes
Jackson Hawes may not be a household name in fantasy football, but his game is built on the qualities that win games late in the season: toughness, physicality, and elite blocking. That’s what the Buffalo Bills saw when they selected the Georgia Tech tight end with the 173rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
After transferring from Yale, Hawes became a vital part of Georgia Tech’s offense in 2024. Known more for his blocking than receiving, the 6-foot-5, 257-pound tight end earned respect throughout the ACC for his relentless, physical play at the line of scrimmage. In 12 games, he caught just 16 passes for 195 yards, but his blocking was top-tier—earning a 74.7 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus.
Buffalo already has pass-catching tight ends in Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox, so the team was looking for a traditional in-line “Y” tight end—someone who could bolster the run game and contribute in physical formations. Hawes fits that mold perfectly. Analysts believe his run-blocking skill alone could land him a spot on the 53-man roster, with added value on special teams.
At Georgia Tech, Hawes was the type of player whose impact wasn’t always visible in stats or highlights but was undeniable to teammates and coaches. “He’s the guy doing the dirty work,” one Tech assistant said. His role in the Yellow Jackets’ success speaks to his dependability, intelligence, and grit.
While Hawes might not generate buzz like flashier picks, his selection is a testament to the value of discipline and fundamentals. Georgia Tech molded a reliable, no-nonsense player, and Buffalo is betting on that foundation to strengthen their offense.
