Sometimes, a new teammate isn't really a new face. That familiarity can make a difference when a player joins an organization mid-stretch. It adds another layer when the new guy is expected to step in as a leader. For Jacoby Brissett, joining the Baltimore Ravens means getting reacquainted with someone who already knows what he brings to a football team.

Jaylinn Hawkins previously played alongside Brissett when both were New England Patriots teammates. That gave the Ravens safety a firsthand look at the quarterback's leadership and approach. Now that Brissett has joined Baltimore, Hawkins is looking forward to reuniting with him.

"I was with Jacoby [Brissett] in New England. That's my boy. That's a good move. Jacoby's a great quarterback. I think he's a really good quarterback. [He's] talented, [has a] good arm [and] he's a leader. Obviously, [he has] been in the game for a long time, so [there's] a lot of wisdom he can bring to this team. I'm excited to see what he does this Monday."

That previous experience gives Hawkins a different perspective from teammates meeting Brissett for the first time. His endorsement comes from having shared a locker room with the quarterback, rather than simply reviewing his career. It offers insight into the teammate Baltimore acquired while leaving Brissett’s performance in this offense to be established on the field.

Hawkins didn't stop at praising Brissett's experience and ability. He believes the quarterback's arrival could provide an emotional boost for a team looking to change its recent fortunes.

"It's great to see [Jacoby Brissett] in black and purple. It's just great to have something like that. I feel like he can create a spark on our team."

Hawkins also has his own return to the field on his mind. The safety has been sidelined by injury and said he is taking his recovery one day at a time, allowing the next few days to determine when he can contribute again. He believes his presence could boost the defense, both through his play and the energy he brings to the locker room.

He said the time away has given him a different perspective, and he has tried to remain involved by offering advice and encouragement to younger teammates. When he does return, he hopes to turn that sideline support into an on-field contribution and help Baltimore find the spark it needs.

Brissett's arrival also comes at an interesting time for the Ravens. Baltimore has lost four consecutive games, and the offense is preparing to operate with another quarterback under center following Lamar Jackson's injury. Brissett brings considerable NFL experience, but establishing chemistry with his new teammates will be an important part of the transition.

Hawkins isn't the only Raven who has spoken positively about the acquisition. Head coach Jesse Minter praised Brissett's commanding presence and willingness to communicate, while center Cam Jurgens highlighted the value of having an experienced quarterback who understands different offensive systems.

For Hawkins, however, the excitement is personal. He already knows the kind of teammate Brissett can be, and he's looking forward to seeing what the quarterback can bring to Baltimore when the Ravens host the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday Night Football.

The reunion also brings together players facing different immediate assignments. Brissett is preparing to direct a new offense, while Hawkins is working toward being available again. Both could help Baltimore, but their contributions will depend on preparation and readiness, not familiarity alone.

Whether Hawkins will be available for that reunion remains to be seen. He has returned to practice, and the next day or two would help determine whether he has a chance to play Monday night. A return would give Baltimore another experienced defender, while allowing Hawkins to turn the encouragement he's offered from the sideline into an opportunity to help on the field.