SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Veteran safety Jaylinn Hawkins sounded ready to sign a new contract with the Patriots immediately following Sunday’s Super Bowl LX loss.
Hawkins, who will be an unrestricted free agent in March, was asked if he’d like to return to the Patriots.
“I really want to come back,” Hawkins said. “These are my brothers. This is the closest I’ve ever been to anybody, any unit, any DB unit, any coaching staff, anybody. This group is special. All of these guys are special. The chemistry is there. It was would be a blessing. That’s something I for sure want to get done. I’d love to be back.”
A new deal will likely come with a significant raise. Hawkins had a career year on a one-year, $1.8 million contract. It was the second straight year Hawkins signed a one-year deal with the Patriots.
The 28-year-old is entering his seventh NFL season next year. He had four interceptions, six pass breakups, 71 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three tackles for loss, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and five QB hits in 15 games this season.
He was an every-down starter next to rookie Craig Woodson in 2025 after entering the offseason as a backup behind Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger.
Hawkins was also a regular contributor on special teams before finding a starting role. The Patriots would be smart to bring the veteran leader back.