C. J. Hawthorne
C. J. Hawthorne (born December 15, 1983 in ) is an American football wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League. He was signed by the Bills as as an undrafted free agent in 2008. He played college football at Hawaii.
Early years
Hawthorne was a 2003 graduate of St. Martin High School in Ocean Springs, Miss. He lettered in basketball, football and track.
College career
Hawthorne originally attended Southwest Gulf Coast C.C. before transferring to Mississippi Gulf Coast C.C.
At Hawaii, Hawthorne originally played defensive back. During his senior year, he was converted to wide receiver. Hawthorne was part of an offensive unit that led Hawaii to the Sugar Bowl and a 12-1 season. In 2007, Hawthorne caught 61 passes for 859 yards and 6 TDs.
Professional career
On August 5, 2008, the Bills signed Hawthorne as an undrafted free agent. He was subsequently released on August 27. The Bills then signed Hawthorne to their practice squad on September 2. According to BuffaloBills.com reporter Chris Brown, "the organization likes" Hawthorne. The Honolulu Star Bulletin also reported on December 31, "Word we’re getting is that C.J. Hawthorne did a great job on the Buffalo Bills practice squad this year, and they want him back next season. With his speed, versatility and sincere team-first attitude, don’t be surprised if he makes the team next year as a special teams player and backup at either receiver or cornerback.Hawthorne was one of the spiritual leaders of UH’s 2007 dream season (and also made some great catches), and should not be forgotten."