Michael Hawkins Jr. is quickly becoming a rising star in college football. Despite starting the 2024 season as Jackson Arnold’s backup, the Oklahoma Sooners’ true freshman quarterback showed both his potential and the need for improvement. He was tested early last season, replacing then-starter Jackson Arnold in the first SEC game against Tennessee. Hawkins  started for four games. In those, he passed for 783 passing yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. He also rushed for 204 yards and a touchdown.

In the 2025 season, Hawkins found himself in a similar situation as last year. He is taking over as Oklahoma’s starting quarterback once more after a hand injury sidelined John Mateer, but this time he appears to be more prepared. He chose to stay in Norman rather than transfer, and he claims that choice is paying off as he continues to improve on and off the field. Teammates and coaches are noticing it, too. Sophomore defensive back Reggie Powers III said. ” The game’s slowing down for him…He’s making his reads quicker; everything’s happening at a better pace.”

What is Michael Hawkins Jr.’s Ethnicity?

The standout quarterback from Allen High School, Michael Hawkins Jr., comes from a strong African American family. Both his parents, Michael Hawkins Sr. and Annabelle Hawkins, are Black, and they have been extremely supportive of their boys’ football careers. But his final year took an unexpected turn when the family became the target of a racial attack.

A racial slur and the words, “We don’t need you in Allen,” were spray-painted outside the family’s home. The Hawkins family was devastated by the occurrence, and Michael Sr. had to make the tough decision of moving his two boys, Michael Jr. and his brother Maliek, from Allen High School in order to ensure their safety. “No kid should go through this,” Michael Sr. said. “No family should go through this, black or white. It just shouldn’t happen.” The experience had left the family searching for a fresh start at Frisco, despite the community and school system expressing support and denouncing the hate speech.

What is Michael Hawkins Jr.’s Religion?

Michael Hawkins Jr. has always said that his faith is very important to him. He hasn’t mentioned his religion in public, although he frequently discusses prioritizing God and leaning on prayer to guide him to make decisions. He even wrote on his IG post, “I pray and thank you my GOD for every blessing you’ve brought into my life and every lesson you’ve taught me!!! BLESSED.” Such a message demonstrates how much his faith influences his outlook and his development as a young quarterback.

What is Michael Hawkins Jr.’s nationality?

Michael Hawkins Jr., is an American who was born in McKinney, Texas, on October 29, 2005. He was raised in a football family. His dad, Michael Hawkins Sr., was a Sooners player before joining the NFL and playing for the Packers, Vikings, and Cowboys, among others. Although his mom, Annabelle, has kept her life more private, she is always present to support her son at games and to celebrate his milestones. The eldest of three children, Michael Jr., has a younger brother named Maliek who is also chasing a football career.