With a unanimous Preseason All-State nod, Marion County’s Deontae Hawkins headed into the 2026 season with lofty expectations. So far, the senior has met those expectations with 30 tackles, 2 interceptions, a pass breakup, and two fumbles forced while rushing for just under 200 yards on offense.
In Week 6, Hawkins nabbed his 2nd interception of the season, catching the ball deep in the endzone, and returning it 105 yards for a score. The electric play added to the blowout score, as Marion County beat Crawford County 56-14, giving the Eagles their first win of the season.
“This season isn’t going exactly as planned. We’ve lost a few close games where we were just one or two plays away from winning. That being said, I’ve had the opportunity to do more on the field this season than I have in the past,” Hawkins said.
The senior has shown his versatility so far this year. He moves around on defense, where Marion County tries to deploy his impact in several packages contingent on down and distance. The senior talked about adjusting to various roles, especially becoming an offensive playmaker.
“During games, there are times when I’m lined up at free safety, times when I walk down and play OLB, and times when I play nickel in certain packages. It feels good knowing that my coaches trust me to play multiple positions and put me wherever they need me on certain plays. I’m also getting a lot more reps on offense at RB, which gives me the opportunity to showcase my speed and awareness,” he said.
One of Hawkins’ top plays of the season was a huge forced fumble where he got downhill, blowing the ball carrier up and causing a turnover. He’s playing with his ears pinned back, reading the play well, and moving fast to the football.
“Compared to last season, I’ve improved at reading plays faster from the safety position. I’m getting downhill quicker, running my lane with more urgency, and taking better angles to the ball than I did in previous seasons. I’m also physically stronger, which allows me to take on and destroy blocks and get to the ball carrier more efficiently. That physical improvement has also contributed to me creating more forced fumbles.”
The physical progress has created a tangible difference on film, and that should grab the attention of college evaluators. As of now, which is shocking to hear, Hawkins is not talking with any college coaches and has no fall visits lined up.
The senior is keeping a positive mindset regardless, saying, “Hopefully, both of those things change soon, but regardless, I’m going to keep working, improving, and putting myself in the best position possible.”
With the 2nd half of the season remaining, Hawkins has so much he can still accomplish. Marion County jumps into its 2nd region game with Central-Talbotton at 6 PM. For Hawkins, he wants to finish off these games strong.
“For the remainder of the season, my first goal is to win more games and continue to lead my team in any way I’m needed. Individually, I want to bring in 4–5 more interceptions, cause 3 more fumbles, and continue to show my versatility on the defensive side of the ball.”
Spoken like a true senior leader. Hawkins recruitment should make a turn in the coming weeks and months as we lead up to National Signing Day. He’s a 6′ 170 lbs athlete who sees the field really well, showing good top-end acceleration, so he can patiently read his keys, then get downhill and make a reliably sound tackle in space.
His recruiting stock will surely rise, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to hear the latest on Hawkins and players across Georgia.
