Tavon Austin’s Draft Profile: Tavon Austin Draft
Tavon Austin, a dynamic and electrifying playmaker from West Virginia University, entered the 2013 NFL Draft with a unique skillset that had scouts and analysts buzzing. His ability to make game-changing plays as a receiver, returner, and even a rusher made him a tantalizing prospect, but also raised questions about his ideal role at the next level.
College Statistics and Strengths
Austin’s college career at West Virginia was marked by explosive plays and electrifying performances. He showcased remarkable speed, agility, and elusiveness, making him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His statistics reflect his impressive skillset:
- Receiving: 288 receptions, 4,287 yards, 34 touchdowns
- Rushing: 175 carries, 1,265 yards, 12 touchdowns
- Kick Returns: 74 returns, 1,754 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Punt Returns: 63 returns, 941 yards, 2 touchdowns
Austin’s strengths as a prospect were undeniable:
- Exceptional Speed and Agility: Austin’s 4.34 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine showcased his blazing speed, which he used to outrun defenders and create big plays. His agility and quickness allowed him to make sharp cuts and elude tackles with ease.
- Dynamic Playmaking Ability: Austin’s versatility was a major asset. He could line up as a wide receiver, running back, or return specialist, making him a valuable weapon for any offense.
- Big Play Potential: His ability to turn short catches into long gains and create explosive plays from seemingly impossible situations was a hallmark of his game.
Weaknesses and Concerns
While Austin’s talent was evident, there were some concerns about his transition to the NFL:
- Size and Strength: At 5’8″ and 174 pounds, Austin lacked ideal size and strength for a traditional wide receiver. This raised questions about his ability to withstand the physicality of NFL defenses and win contested catches.
- Route Running and Hands: Austin’s route running was considered raw, and his hands were not always reliable. This led to some concerns about his ability to develop into a consistent and reliable receiver at the NFL level.
- Durability: Austin’s smaller frame and aggressive running style raised concerns about his durability and ability to withstand the rigors of a full NFL season.
Athletic Profile Comparison
Tavon Austin’s athleticism was undeniable, but it was crucial to compare him to other top receivers in his draft class. Here’s a comparison of his key athletic measurements:
Player | 40-Yard Dash | Vertical Jump | Broad Jump | 3-Cone Drill | 20-Yard Shuttle |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tavon Austin | 4.34 | 38.5″ | 131″ | 6.88 | 4.21 |
Cordarrelle Patterson | 4.42 | 39.5″ | 134″ | 6.87 | 4.09 |
DeAndre Hopkins | 4.56 | 37.5″ | 125″ | 7.08 | 4.26 |
Robert Woods | 4.51 | 36.5″ | 126″ | 6.94 | 4.17 |
Austin’s speed and agility were evident, but other receivers in his class, like Cordarrelle Patterson, possessed similar athleticism. While Austin’s athleticism was a significant strength, it was important to consider his overall skillset and potential for development.
Draft Stock and Projections
Leading up to the draft, there was a range of opinions and projections regarding Tavon Austin’s draft stock. Some scouts and analysts believed he could be a top-10 pick, while others projected him to be a mid-round selection.
- Projections: Some analysts saw Austin as a potential game-changer and projected him to be a top-10 pick, potentially even going as high as the No. 1 overall selection.
- Concerns: Other analysts expressed concerns about his size, route running, and durability, suggesting he might be a better fit as a slot receiver or return specialist. They projected him to be a mid-round pick.
“Tavon Austin is a dynamic playmaker with game-breaking speed and agility. He has the potential to be a special player in the NFL, but his size and route running need improvement.” – NFL Analyst
“Austin is a great athlete with a lot of potential, but I’m not sure he’s a true No. 1 wide receiver. He could be a valuable weapon in the right system, but he’s a bit of a project.” – NFL Scout
The differing opinions and projections highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Austin’s draft stock. His unique skillset and potential for greatness were undeniable, but his weaknesses and the questions about his ideal role in the NFL created a debate among draft experts.
Tavon Austin’s NFL Career
Tavon Austin’s journey in the NFL was a tale of electrifying talent and frustrating inconsistency. Drafted eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2013, he was expected to be a game-changing weapon, bringing explosive speed and elusiveness to their offense. However, his impact was not as significant as many anticipated, and his career was marked by a series of position changes and challenges in finding a consistent role.
Tavon Austin’s Impact on the Rams’ Offense
Tavon Austin’s skillset initially seemed like a perfect fit for the Rams’ offense. His speed and agility made him a threat in the open field, and his ability to catch passes out of the backfield and slot receiver position added another dimension to their attack. However, the Rams struggled to fully utilize his unique talents. His initial role was primarily as a slot receiver and return specialist, but his impact was limited by inconsistent quarterback play and a lack of defined offensive scheme that maximized his strengths.
Tavon Austin’s Legacy and Impact
Tavon Austin’s career, while not reaching the heights many predicted, left a mark on the NFL. His electrifying speed and versatility, though not always translated into consistent production, made him a unique and memorable player. Examining his journey alongside other top receivers from his draft class allows us to understand his legacy and impact on the Rams and the league as a whole.
Tavon Austin’s Career Trajectory Compared to His Draft Class
Tavon Austin was drafted eighth overall in the 2013 NFL Draft, a testament to his exceptional talent and potential. However, his career trajectory differed significantly from some of his peers. For example, DeAndre Hopkins, drafted 27th overall, has become a perennial Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most dominant wide receivers. Similarly, Kenny Stills, drafted 29th overall, has established himself as a reliable deep threat. While Austin’s speed and elusiveness were undeniable, he struggled to consistently find his niche in the NFL, leading to a career marked by inconsistency.
Tavon Austin’s Long-Term Impact on the Rams and the NFL, Tavon austin draft
Despite his inconsistent production, Tavon Austin brought a unique dimension to the Rams’ offense. His ability to make big plays in the return game and as a receiver provided a spark that could change the momentum of a game. He also contributed to the Rams’ shift towards a more dynamic and explosive offensive scheme. His impact on the NFL, however, is more nuanced. He helped showcase the potential of a dynamic, multi-faceted offensive weapon, a role that has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, his inability to consistently deliver on that potential serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictability of the NFL and the importance of finding a clear role for players with unique skill sets.
Tavon Austin’s Key Career Accomplishments and Statistics
Category | Statistic |
---|---|
Games Played | 81 |
Receiving Yards | 2,417 |
Receiving Touchdowns | 13 |
Kickoff Return Touchdowns | 3 |
Punt Return Touchdowns | 2 |
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Tavon Austin’s draft stock soared thanks to his electrifying speed and agility, showcased in his dynamic performances at West Virginia. To see just how explosive he was in college, check out tavon austin college highlights. This glimpse into his college career reveals the raw talent that made him a coveted draft pick and a player to watch in the NFL.