Jake Hawk epitomizes the development of the Navy offensive line during the current triple-option era.
When Navy went to the Houston Bowl in 2003, the starting left tackle (Nick Wilson) weighed 264 pounds. That was typical along the line during the first decade as head coach Paul Johnson valued quickness and athleticism over size.
In recent years, as its national profile has skyrocketed, Navy has been able to recruit offensive linemen that are both big and athletic. Hawk, who is quite nimble at 6-foot-6 and 300 pounds, is a prime example of the new-look offensive linemen the Midshipmen put on the field.
Hawk is slated to make his first career start at left tackle on Friday night when Navy opens the season at Florida Atlantic. The Meade High graduate is humbled to follow in the footsteps of players such as Joey Gaston and Blake Copeland that he looked up to and learned from.
“It’s a huge honor because I’ve seen how great all the guys that have come before me have been. Just to be in this position is a great feeling,” Hawk said.
Hawk was the top backup at both tackle spots last season, periodically spelling Copeland and Andrew Wood. Offensive line coach Ashley Ingram said Hawk “played early in games and very meaningful snaps.”
That indoctrination made Hawk the favorite to replace Copeland at left tackle and solidified the starting spot with a strong spring camp. The Severn resident worked hard during the off-season to get into tip-top condition and has performed extremely well during August drills.
“Jake is a big, athletic kid. He had a great spring and has continued that this summer. He’s playing really good football for us,” Ingram said this week.
Hawk has actually dropped 17 pounds since the end of last season in order to improve his footwork. Navy’s tackles must be able to reach the second level to block linebackers and Hawk has shown the quickness to do so during training camp.
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