Tavon Austins Draft Journey From West Virginia to the NFL

Tavon Austin’s Draft Profile

Tavon Austin was a highly anticipated prospect entering the 2013 NFL Draft, known for his electrifying speed and agility on the football field. His college career at West Virginia showcased his exceptional talent, and his pre-draft combine performance solidified his status as a top draft pick.

College Football Career

Austin’s time at West Virginia was marked by numerous accolades and electrifying plays. He was a dynamic playmaker who could impact the game in various ways. His strengths included his exceptional speed, agility, and elusiveness, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was also a skilled route runner and had a knack for finding the end zone. However, his size was a concern for some scouts, as he was relatively small for a wide receiver. Additionally, his consistency and ability to make tough catches were sometimes questioned.

Pre-Draft Combine Performance

Austin’s performance at the 2013 NFL Combine further cemented his reputation as a speedster. He ran a blazing 4.34-second 40-yard dash, showcasing his exceptional speed. He also recorded a 39-inch vertical jump and a 131-inch broad jump, demonstrating his explosive athleticism. His performance in the combine drills solidified his status as a first-round draft pick.

Draft Stock

Leading up to the 2013 NFL Draft, Austin’s draft stock was consistently high. He was projected as a potential top-10 pick, with many analysts considering him a dynamic offensive weapon with the potential to be a game-changer at the next level. His speed, agility, and versatility made him a highly sought-after prospect, and his pre-draft combine performance only further solidified his status as a top prospect.

The St. Louis Rams’ Decision to Draft Tavon Austin

The St. Louis Rams, entering the 2013 NFL Draft, were a team in transition. After a dismal 2012 season, they were seeking to bolster their offense, particularly their receiving corps. Their strategy involved finding a dynamic playmaker who could add a spark to their attack.

The Rationale Behind Drafting Tavon Austin

The Rams believed that Tavon Austin possessed the unique skill set they needed. His exceptional speed, agility, and versatility made him a potential game-changer. Austin’s ability to line up in multiple positions and contribute as a receiver, running back, and return specialist made him a highly coveted prospect.

Austin’s Draft Position Compared to Other Wide Receivers

Austin’s selection at eighth overall was a bold move by the Rams. Other notable wide receivers drafted in the same year included:

• DeAndre Hopkins (27th overall, Houston Texans)
• Cordarrelle Patterson (29th overall, Minnesota Vikings)
• Robert Woods (41st overall, Buffalo Bills)
• Donte Moncrief (90th overall, Indianapolis Colts)

While these players have had successful careers, Austin’s draft position reflected the Rams’ high expectations for him and their belief in his potential to be a transformative player.

Tavon Austin’s NFL Career: Tavon Austin Draft Pick

Tavon Austin, drafted eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2013, embarked on a career marked by flashes of brilliance and frustrating inconsistency. Despite his dynamic skillset, his NFL journey was characterized by challenges in finding a consistent role and maximizing his potential.

Austin’s Performance with the Rams

Austin’s time with the Rams was a mixed bag of exciting plays and unfulfilled expectations. While he showcased his speed and agility, he struggled to translate those skills into consistent production.

• He was a dangerous weapon in the return game, returning a punt and a kickoff for touchdowns in his rookie season. He also proved to be a threat as a receiver, catching 57 passes for 573 yards and four touchdowns in his first season.
• Austin’s versatility and playmaking ability made him a valuable asset for the Rams, but his small stature and lack of strength limited his effectiveness in certain situations.
• His receiving numbers fluctuated throughout his time in St. Louis, and he was often criticized for his inability to consistently make big plays.
• In 2015, he had a career-high 65 catches for 588 yards, but his touchdown production remained low.

Austin’s Role and Impact on the Rams’ Offense, Tavon austin draft pick

Austin’s role in the Rams’ offense evolved throughout his tenure. Initially, he was envisioned as a dynamic playmaker who could create big plays in various ways. However, his inconsistent performance and the emergence of other offensive weapons led to a more defined role for him.

• He was primarily used as a slot receiver, but also saw snaps as a running back and even as a Wildcat quarterback.
• His presence on the field often created mismatches for opposing defenses, forcing them to account for his speed and elusiveness.
• Despite his ability to make plays, Austin’s impact on the Rams’ offense was often inconsistent. He struggled to gain separation from defenders and was often targeted on short routes, limiting his big-play potential.

Austin’s Subsequent NFL Career

After his time with the Rams, Austin played for the Dallas Cowboys, the San Francisco 49ers, and the Buffalo Bills. He never quite replicated his early success, but he continued to contribute to his teams as a returner and receiver.

• He had a brief stint with the Cowboys in 2017, where he primarily played as a returner.
• In 2018, he joined the 49ers, but his role was limited due to injuries.
• He signed with the Bills in 2019 and played in 10 games, mostly as a return specialist.

Tavon austin draft pick – Remember Tavon Austin? That guy who was drafted 8th overall by the Rams? Yeah, he was supposed to be the next big thing, a lightning bolt of a receiver. But you know who was actually a lightning bolt?

Miles Austin , the guy who was a late-round pick and became a star with the Cowboys. Maybe if Tavon had just focused on running straight instead of trying to juke every defender, he could have been just as good.

Who knows, maybe he’ll even be a star in the XFL!