Tavon Austin Draft A Look at His NFL Journey

Tavon Austin’s Draft Profile

Tavon Austin was a highly touted prospect coming out of West Virginia University, known for his explosive speed and versatility as a receiver and returner. He was projected to be a high draft pick, and his performance at the NFL Combine and Pro Day only solidified his status as one of the most exciting players in the draft.

Tavon Austin’s College Career

Austin’s college career at West Virginia was marked by his electrifying playmaking ability. He was a dynamic receiver who could create big plays with his speed and agility, and he was also a dangerous returner who could take it to the house at any moment.

• As a receiver, Austin was a threat to score every time he touched the ball. He was known for his quickness and elusiveness, making him difficult to tackle in the open field. He was also a reliable target, showcasing good hands and route-running ability.
• Austin’s speed and agility made him a valuable asset as a returner. He was a threat to break a long return every time he touched the ball. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field was evident in his impressive return yardage and touchdown totals.

However, Austin’s college career was not without its weaknesses.

• One of the biggest concerns was his size. At 5’8″ and 174 pounds, he was considered undersized for a wide receiver in the NFL. This raised questions about his ability to withstand the physicality of the professional game and his potential to be a consistent target.
• Another concern was his route-running ability. While he was a good route runner, some scouts questioned whether he had the refined technique and precision necessary to consistently beat NFL cornerbacks.

Tavon Austin’s NFL Combine and Pro Day, Tavon austin draft

Austin’s performance at the NFL Combine and Pro Day further showcased his exceptional athleticism and potential.

• At the Combine, Austin ran a blazing 4.34-second 40-yard dash, demonstrating his elite speed. He also posted impressive numbers in the other drills, including a 38.5-inch vertical jump and a 131-inch broad jump, further solidifying his athleticism.
• Austin’s Pro Day performance further confirmed his speed and agility. He continued to impress with his explosive athleticism, solidifying his status as one of the most dynamic players in the draft.

Pre-Draft Scouting Reports

Pre-draft scouting reports on Tavon Austin were generally positive, highlighting his exceptional athleticism and potential for success in the NFL.

• Most scouts projected Austin to be a slot receiver in the NFL, believing his size and skill set would be best utilized in that role. They recognized his ability to create separation and make plays after the catch, making him a valuable weapon in the slot.
• Austin’s speed and elusiveness were also seen as valuable assets in the return game. Many scouts believed he had the potential to be a dynamic returner in the NFL, capable of making big plays and changing the momentum of a game.
• Despite his strengths, some scouts expressed concerns about Austin’s size and his ability to consistently beat NFL cornerbacks. They questioned whether he could withstand the physicality of the NFL and whether he had the route-running refinement to be a reliable target.

“Austin is a game-changer with the ball in his hands. He has the speed and agility to make defenders miss in the open field, and he’s a threat to score every time he touches the ball.” – NFL Scout

Tavon Austin’s Draft Selection

The St. Louis Rams’ selection of Tavon Austin with the eighth overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft was a bold move that sparked considerable debate among analysts and fans alike. The Rams, who had struggled in recent years, were hoping that Austin’s explosive speed and versatility would be the catalyst for a turnaround.

Tavon Austin’s Draft Position Compared to Other Top Receivers

Tavon Austin’s selection as the eighth overall pick was a testament to his exceptional athleticism and potential, but it also raised questions about his fit in the NFL. In the 2013 draft, several other talented receivers were available, including DeAndre Hopkins, who was selected 27th overall by the Houston Texans. Hopkins, with his size and route-running skills, was considered a more traditional wide receiver prospect, while Austin was seen as a dynamic playmaker who could be utilized in various ways.

• Tavon Austin (8th overall, St. Louis Rams): 5’8″, 174 lbs, West Virginia
• DeAndre Hopkins (27th overall, Houston Texans): 6’1″, 214 lbs, Clemson

The decision to select Austin over Hopkins, who went on to have a successful career, was based on the Rams’ belief in Austin’s unique skillset and the potential for him to create big plays. While Hopkins developed into a reliable target and a consistent producer, Austin’s impact on the Rams was more limited.

Impact of Tavon Austin’s Selection on the Rams’ Roster and Draft Strategy

The selection of Tavon Austin had a significant impact on the Rams’ roster and their draft strategy. The Rams were looking for a dynamic playmaker who could change the game, and they believed that Austin was the player who could fill that role. However, Austin’s lack of size and traditional wide receiver skills made him a difficult fit in the Rams’ offense, and his impact was limited. The Rams’ decision to draft Austin over other top receivers, like Hopkins, also highlighted their emphasis on speed and athleticism over size and traditional skills.

• Strengths: Exceptional speed, agility, and versatility
• Weaknesses: Lack of size and traditional wide receiver skills

Austin’s selection was a gamble that did not pay off as hoped, and it ultimately contributed to the Rams’ continued struggles. The Rams’ decision to draft Austin also had a lasting impact on their draft strategy, as they continued to prioritize speed and athleticism over size and traditional skills in subsequent drafts.

Tavon Austin’s NFL Career: Tavon Austin Draft

Tavon Austin’s NFL career was a fascinating blend of electrifying potential and frustrating inconsistency. Despite being drafted eighth overall in 2013, his impact on the St. Louis Rams (later the Los Angeles Rams) fell short of expectations, though he still carved out a role as a dynamic offensive weapon and a valuable return specialist.

Tavon Austin’s Statistics with the Rams

Tavon Austin’s statistics paint a picture of a player with explosiveness and versatility, but also one who struggled to consistently deliver on his immense talent.

• Over his six seasons with the Rams, Austin totaled 2,915 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns. He averaged 10.3 yards per reception, showcasing his ability to make big plays.
• Austin also showcased his speed and agility as a returner, accumulating 1,558 kickoff return yards and two touchdowns. He was a threat to take any return to the house.
• While Austin was a valuable weapon for the Rams, his inconsistency was a major concern. He had only one season with over 600 receiving yards and struggled to find a consistent role in the offense.

Tavon Austin’s Challenges in Adapting to the NFL

Austin’s transition to the NFL was marked by several challenges that hindered his ability to reach his full potential.

• His size, at 5’8″ and 174 pounds, made him a smaller target for quarterbacks and a difficult matchup against bigger defensive backs.
• His route running was another area of concern, as he struggled to create separation from defenders and often ran into trouble against tight coverage.
• Austin’s consistency was a major issue, as he would flash brilliance in some games and disappear in others. This made it difficult for coaches to rely on him in key situations.

Tavon Austin’s Impact on the Rams’ Success

While Austin never became the dominant force many expected, he still contributed to the Rams’ success during his time with the team.

• His speed and agility created a unique dimension to the Rams’ offense, forcing defenses to account for him and opening up opportunities for other players.
• His return abilities were a significant weapon, giving the Rams excellent field position and providing a spark to their special teams.
• Austin’s impact on the Rams’ success was most evident in 2014, when he had a career-high 57 catches and contributed significantly to their playoff run.

Tavon austin draft – Tavon Austin’s electrifying speed and agility were undeniable, making him a coveted prospect in the 2013 NFL Draft. His explosive playmaking ability was evident from his days at West Virginia, where he shattered numerous records. But as teams weighed his potential, they also considered his age, which can be found here.

Ultimately, the Rams took a chance on the young talent, selecting him eighth overall. The decision sparked debate, but it was a testament to Austin’s undeniable talent and the potential he held to electrify the league.

Tavon Austin, a name that resonated with electrifying speed and agility, was a highly anticipated prospect in the 2013 NFL Draft. His dynamic playmaking abilities on the field, showcased during his time at West Virginia, fueled the excitement surrounding his selection.

To fully appreciate his impact, it’s worth exploring his career stats, tavon austin career stats , which highlight his undeniable talent and contributions to the game. His draft position, eighth overall, reflected the high hopes placed on him, and his career journey is a testament to the captivating nature of this exceptional athlete.