ANALYSIS
Positives: Thick, compact frame with flexible lower half. Gets a good jump and exhibits an explosive first step off the snap. Does a good job of maintaining low leverage on contact. Exhibits good bend in his lower half when asked to hold position at the point of attack. Consistently gets his hands into his opponent's frame. Flashes quick hands and a nice swim move to bypass his blocker to either side. Impressive agility and break down ability for his size. Above-average closing burst in space. Displays solid backfield vision and awareness as a run defender. Hip flexibility to effectively dip and turn the corner on stunts to the outside.
Negatives: May be considered somewhat undersized for the position. Lacks ideal arm length, and is locked up often as a result. Doesn't rip or swim as much as he should when considering his plus hand quickness and lack of length. Struggles to disengage when attempting to close running lanes from his anchor. Hand power is marginal at best, as he appears to "bounce" off his opponent at times when initiating contact off the snap. Resorts more to the bull rush than he should, as he lacks the natural power to consistently drive opponents off the block.
Compares to: Greg Scruggs, DT, Seattle Seahawks - Like Scruggs, Dawkins possesses explosiveness and athleticism that could make him a feared interior rusher at the next level. However, to be a more consistent threat to quarterbacks, he'll need to become more active with his hands, and continue to develop a repertoire of counter-moves that utilize his "plus" athleticism and quickness.
--Derek Stephens