Tanner Hawkinson Drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals

Tanner Hawkinson, a Kansas native, came to Kansas as the 23rd ranked player at his position according to Rivals. That position, however, was tight end. As a redshirt Freshman, Hawkinson started at right tackle for Mark Mangino and he never looked back.

It was an up and down last few years for Kansas football, but Hawkinson has always been a guy people thought had next level potential, and now he will get the chance to prove that as he was taken in the 5th round by the Cincinnati Bengals, 156th overall.

On ESPN's coverage, Mel Kiper Jr. said Hawkinson needs to get stronger in the weight room, but he has good feet and balance and says he will at worst be a backup with versatility if he gets stronger.

Todd McShay said his versatility and his understanding of all of the positions around the line will help him in Cincinnati and he could be a good backup for both tackles.

Hawkinson getting drafted means Kansas breaks a three year drought in terms of the NFL Draft. Hopefully it's the first of many to come in the next few years.