Ravens Sign Veteran Safety Jaylinn Hawkins

Baltimore adds experienced defensive back to bolster secondary

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:13am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Ravens defensive formation, with players' bodies and movements broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color.The Ravens' new-look defense takes shape, with veteran safety Jaylinn Hawkins adding experience and flexibility to the secondary.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Ravens have signed veteran safety Jaylinn Hawkins to a two-year, $10 million contract. Hawkins, a former starter for the New England Patriots, is expected to provide depth and experience to the Ravens' secondary as they look to build a flexible, versatile defense under new coordinator Jesse Minter.

Why it matters

The Hawkins signing signals the Ravens' intent to balance youth and experience in their defensive backfield, allowing young stars like Kyle Hamilton to develop while having a reliable veteran presence. Hawkins' ability to play multiple roles will give the Ravens schematic flexibility as they look to field a risk-averse, communication-driven defense in 2026.

The details

Hawkins, 28, started 15 games for the Patriots in 2025, recording 72 tackles, 8 passes defended, and 2 interceptions. He brings a blend of reliability and playmaking ability that the Ravens believe will complement their young safety duo of Hamilton and Malaki Starks. The two-year contract gives Baltimore flexibility while providing an experienced, adaptable piece to their defensive puzzle.

  • Hawkins signed with the Ravens on April 10, 2026.

The players

Jaylinn Hawkins

A 28-year-old veteran safety who spent the last four seasons with the New England Patriots, starting 15 games in 2025.

Kyle Hamilton

A rising star safety for the Ravens, entering his third NFL season.

Malaki Starks

A young safety drafted by the Ravens in 2025, expected to start alongside Hamilton in the secondary.

Jesse Minter

The Ravens' new defensive coordinator, known for his versatile, communication-focused schemes.

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What they’re saying

“Jaylinn Hawkins brings the kind of veteran presence and positional flexibility we need to complement our young defensive backs. His experience and football IQ will be invaluable as we look to build a cohesive, adaptable unit.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, Baltimore Ravens

What’s next

The Ravens will look to integrate Hawkins into their defensive system during OTAs and training camp, with the goal of having him ready to contribute in a variety of roles by the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Ravens' signing of Jaylinn Hawkins is a strategic move to add a reliable, experienced safety who can provide stability and versatility to their secondary. By balancing youth and veteran presence, Baltimore is positioning itself to field a flexible, communication-driven defense that can adapt to the challenges of the 2026 season.