Communication will be one of the most important parts of Baltimore’s defense under Jesse Minter. Since all the disguises, rotations and movements happen before the snap, the safety acts almost like the quarterback on the defense. Jaylinn Hawkins takes on that responsibility.
Can Hawkins be one of the key communicators in Baltimore’s secondary this season?
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During an appearance on The Collective podcast, Hawkins explained why communication and pre-snap identification have always been a major part of his game.
“I mean, it’s always a safety, it’s always communication before the snap. You know what I’m saying? It starts with us. I feel like um, that’s something that I’ve always been, you know, good at and I pride myself on my communication and recognition before the snap. I feel like that’s what you need to play safety in defense… you have to communicate… so, I feel comfortable in that role.”
That answer helps explain why the Ravens targeted Hawkins in free agency. Baltimore already has enough athleticism and versatility in the secondary, and adding another veteran safety with the ability to run the defense ahead of the offense could make the team even stronger. For Hawkins, communication is more than just a part of the position—it’s one of the foundations of playing safety at a high level. Baltimore’s defense relies heavily on disguises, adjustments and pre-snap movement, which puts a huge responsibility on the secondary to keep everyone in line. Hawkins sounds like he’s already relishing the challenge, and his ability to communicate quickly and identify formations could make him a big part of the Ravens’ defense heading into 2026.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens safeties under Jesse Minter see communication as key
