Compared to last year, this summer’s slate of Pittsburgh Steelers workouts was more enjoyable and productive for offensive lineman Jerald Hawkins.
During organized team activities last year, Hawkins suffered a torn left quadriceps that ended his third season.
Back on the practice fields at UPMC Rooney Sports Complex the past four weeks, Hawkins was relieved he made it through OTAs and minicamp healthy. He also was heartened his leg held up better than expected.
“This whole OTAs (and minicamp) helped to show me a lot,” Hawkins said as mandatory minicamp wrapped up Thursday. “I like where I am at with (the knee), the mental aspect and what I can do with it and what I need to work on.
“Honestly, it did better than what I expected. I knew I was back strong, and I knew it was stable. But now being able to anchor down and be able to take bull rush, just being able to run on screens, I feel good with it all. Still not where I want to be, but I will say I am like 75% right now, so doing pretty good.”
Kevin Gorman: Steelers tackle Jerald Hawkins should be saluted for comeback
— Kevin Gorman (@KGorman_Trib) May 23, 2019
(Via TribLive) https://t.co/a4DxuZiIsM
Hawkins estimated his quad would be “80 or 90%” by the time the Steelers reconvene at training camp July 25 at Saint Vincent. It will be in Latrobe where Hawkins is hoping to impress enough to win the starting right tackle spot.
If Hawkins does not earn that gig, it seems as if the organization is prepping him for another role. Hawkins said in addition to taking reps at right and left tackle he also has been practicing some at guard.
“Wherever they want me at, I’m gonna be there,” Hawkins said with a laugh. “If they want me, I’m going in there. I’m not going to tell them ‘no.’ ”
Hawkins said he at times wore a brace during the summer workouts bit will not wear it at training camp.
Winning the job as the starting right tackle is, of course, the ultimate goal. But for the time being, for a player who has missed two of his first three NFL seasons because of injury, Hawkins is taking more of a one-day-at-a-time approach.
“Right now I am focusing on just making sure I am back to the best of my ability,” Hawkins said.
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