In 2001, Hawkins rebounded and played in 14 games (starting 13), totaling 49 tackles, 10 assists, and three interceptions. In 2002, he started and played in 15 games, recording 69 tackles, seven assists, two sacks, and two interceptions, including a league-leading and team record 102-yard interception return for a touchdown on a pass by David Carr in a 38–3 Bengals' win over the Houston Texans. In 2003, his sixth and final season with the Bengals, he played in 14 games, starting nine, with 50 tackles, five assists, and one interception.