Desmond Hawkins joined the Memphis football program prior to the 2017 campaign from Hinds Community College. After redshirting in 2017, Hawkins saw his first action on the field in 2018. In 20 games played, he registered 21 total tackles and had seven multi-tackle contests. He finished his career in Memphis at the 84th Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic where he recorded a tackle.
Hawkins graduated from the University of Memphis in May of 2019.
My time at Memphis has been a journey. I have learned good things that'll help me off the field.