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January 23, 2008

Senior Bowl: Hawkins shines, Sweed goes home

For the second straight day, Cal receiver Lavelle Hawkins jumped out for the North squad. Hawkins caught everything that was thrown in his direction, including a couple of deep passes in which he outwrestled the defensive back for the ball. An elementary school class from Mobile was on hand to watch the practice and they erupted every time Hawkins made a play. (The Senior Bowl practices are otherwise quiet). Hawkins obliged the kids with a little showmanship. Said Raiders assistant coach Greg Knapp of Hawkins: “He had a nice go (route) down there on the left sideline. He used his body very well.”

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Speaking of receivers, the South has lost two big names. LSU’s Early Doucet injured his hamstring yesterday and will sit out the rest of the week. Meanwhile, Texas’ Limas Sweed continued to be bothered by a wrist injury and went home, according to Mike Nolan. The 49ers are hoping to replace Sweed with receiver Jerome Simpson from Coastal Carolina. Simpson was expected to arrive in time for this afternoon’s practice.

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The Detroit Lions this week hired three new assistants, one of whom – Scot Loeffler – will coach quarterbacks. The 49ers are interested in the Lions’ former quarterback coach, Adam Gase, who was moved to offensive assistant.

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Nebraska offensive lineman Carl Nicks is creating a lot of buzz in Mobile. Nicks is the biggest player in the Senior Bowl – 6-4 7/8, 343 pounds – and he has been impressive at both right and left tackle. “That’s what you want your tackle to look like,” said one scout.

I’ll have more later today after the South’s practice …

-- Matt Barrows

Posted by Matthew Barrows at 10:33 AM | Comments |