Penn State defensive lineman announces that his football career is over
A Penn State defensive lineman has announced that his football career is over.
Aeneas Hawkins said in a statement posted to social media on Wednesday that he is excited for whatever comes next. It just won’t be on the gridiron. The Cincinnati, Ohio native will graduate from Penn State this summer with a degree in broadcast journalism.
“After 4 years and many conversations with those closest to me, I’ve made the decision to end my football career,” Hawkins wrote. “Although much of my time in college was spent battling injury, my experience as a Penn State student-athlete was better than I could have ever imagined. I will always cherish the opportunities, experiences, and growth-demanding environment the game of football brings. I will cherish these memories forever.”
Hawkins was either a three- or four-star recruit depending on the recruiting service used in the Class of 2018. He redshirted during his first year on campus and played in just two games over the 2019 and 2020 seasons. He did not participate in a contest during the 2021 slate. Health issues limited many of his opportunities in State College.
“College football was always a dream of mine,” Hawkins wrote. “My brothers in the locker room, coaches, the entire Penn State Football staff and Penn State community made this journey worthwhile. I’m forever thankful for you all and feel so honored to be part of this family.
“A special thank you to the teachers, coaches and administration of Moeller High School as well. Make no mistake, I would not have been able to live out my dream without the belief and support I received from the people in that special building. Although this door has closed, I look forward to what the Lord has next.”
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What it means for Penn State moving forward
Hawkins was undoubtedly a quality member of the Nittany Lions roster, even if the aforementioned injury issues hampered his chance to get on the field. He showed off his fun-loving personality as a co-host of the ‘Hawk and Dawk’ podcast with offensive lineman Nick Dawkins. Don’t be surprised to hear Hawkins calling football games down the road on television or radio.
As for Penn State moving forward, Hawkins was unlikely to crack the two-deep in 2021. Although his recovery timeline is unclear, P.J. Mustipher returning for the 2022 season will eat up one first-team spot, and Coziah Izzard and D’Von Ellies will battle for the other starting job. Whoever doesn’t win it will be a key backup along with Amin Vanover, Fred Hansard, Fatorma Mulbah, and Jordan van den Berg. All are expected back next season, as is Hakeem Beamon.
Penn State chould also choose to add to its defensive tackle depth via the transfer portal, as well. It will be able to sell the success of Derrick Tangelo to any possible targets. At this time, however, there are no names to know. But, that can and likely will change in the future.
Penn State opens its 2022 season at Purdue.
