Tavon Austins Draft Pick A Look at His Rise and NFL Journey - Natalie Du Faur

Tavon Austins Draft Pick A Look at His Rise and NFL Journey

Tavon Austin’s Draft Profile

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Tavon Austin was a highly anticipated prospect in the 2013 NFL Draft, known for his electrifying speed and versatility. His dynamic skillset, honed during his time at West Virginia University, made him a potential game-changer at the professional level.

Tavon Austin’s Athleticism and Skillset, Tavon austin draft pick

Austin’s exceptional athleticism was a defining characteristic. He possessed blazing speed, recorded a 4.34-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, showcasing his ability to outrun defenders. His agility and quickness allowed him to make sharp cuts and change direction effortlessly, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His versatility extended beyond his receiving abilities; he was also a threat as a runner, returning kicks, and even playing defensive back. This multifaceted skillset made him a valuable asset on the field.

Tavon Austin’s College Performance

Austin’s collegiate career at West Virginia University was marked by impressive statistics. He showcased his explosiveness and elusiveness, racking up significant yards both as a receiver and a rusher. His ability to break tackles and create big plays consistently drew attention from NFL scouts.

  • In 2012, his senior year, Austin amassed 1,185 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 15.2 yards per catch.
  • He also rushed for 643 yards and eight touchdowns on 91 carries, highlighting his versatility.
  • As a return specialist, Austin added 507 yards and a touchdown on 23 kickoff returns.

These impressive numbers solidified his status as a top draft prospect, drawing interest from teams seeking a dynamic playmaker.

Tavon Austin’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Austin’s speed, agility, and versatility were his most significant strengths. His ability to make defenders miss in the open field and create big plays was undeniable. However, he also had some weaknesses that teams needed to consider.

  • While his speed was a major asset, some scouts questioned his route running and ability to consistently create separation from defenders.
  • His size, at 5’8″ and 179 pounds, was a concern, as he might struggle against bigger and more physical cornerbacks in the NFL.

Despite these weaknesses, Austin’s potential was undeniable. With the right coaching and development, he had the potential to become a game-changing player in the NFL.

The 2013 NFL Draft

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The 2013 NFL Draft took place on April 25-27, 2013, in New York City. It was a memorable draft for several reasons, including the emergence of a strong quarterback class and the selection of some highly-touted prospects who went on to have successful NFL careers.

Tavon Austin’s Draft Position and Notable Players in the Same Round

Tavon Austin was selected eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft. This pick came after the Rams traded up from the 16th overall pick to secure Austin’s services. Other notable players selected in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft include:

  • Eric Fisher (1st overall, Kansas City Chiefs): Fisher was a dominant offensive tackle at Central Michigan and was expected to be a cornerstone player for the Chiefs. He went on to play nine seasons in the NFL, earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2015.
  • Luke Joeckel (2nd overall, Jacksonville Jaguars): Joeckel was a highly-touted offensive tackle from Texas A&M. He was initially expected to be a franchise left tackle, but his career was plagued by injuries. He played six seasons in the NFL.
  • Dee Milliner (9th overall, New York Jets): Milliner was a talented cornerback from Alabama. He was expected to be a shutdown corner for the Jets, but his career was also hampered by injuries. He played four seasons in the NFL.

Impact of Tavon Austin’s Selection on the St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams had a clear need for a dynamic playmaker on offense when they selected Tavon Austin in the 2013 NFL Draft. The Rams were hoping that Austin would be able to provide a spark to their offense and create big plays for them. The Rams were coming off a 7-8-1 season in 2012, and they were looking to make a move to the playoffs.

The Rams’ selection of Tavon Austin was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some believed that the Rams had made a good pick, while others felt that they had reached for a player who was not ready for the NFL. Austin’s impact on the Rams was not as significant as the team had hoped. While he was able to make some big plays, he was not able to consistently contribute to the offense. He struggled to adjust to the NFL game and was often used in a limited role.

“The Rams were hoping that Austin would be able to provide a spark to their offense and create big plays for them. However, Austin’s impact on the Rams was not as significant as the team had hoped. While he was able to make some big plays, he was not able to consistently contribute to the offense. He struggled to adjust to the NFL game and was often used in a limited role.”

Tavon Austin’s NFL Career: Tavon Austin Draft Pick

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Tavon Austin’s NFL career was a mixed bag, marked by flashes of brilliance but ultimately failing to live up to the high expectations set for him as a first-round draft pick. Despite his electrifying speed and athleticism, he struggled to find consistent success in a variety of offensive schemes and battled injuries throughout his time in the league. This section will delve into the journey of Tavon Austin’s NFL career, exploring the challenges he faced and the moments that defined his time on the field.

Tavon Austin’s NFL Timeline

Tavon Austin’s NFL career spanned eight seasons, showcasing his dynamic abilities while facing challenges that hindered his full potential. This timeline Artikels the key teams, performances, and notable moments that shaped his journey.

  • 2013: Drafted eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams, Austin made an immediate impact, showcasing his speed and agility as a return specialist and receiving threat. He earned a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie, returning two punts for touchdowns and recording 41 receptions for 441 yards. However, his role as a receiver was limited by the Rams’ offensive system.
  • 2014-2016: Austin’s role in the Rams’ offense remained inconsistent, as he struggled to find a consistent rhythm within their scheme. While he continued to be a dynamic returner, his receiving production fluctuated, hampered by injuries and inconsistent usage.
  • 2017: Traded to the Dallas Cowboys, Austin experienced a fresh start with a new team and offensive system. However, he continued to battle injuries and saw limited playing time. He finished the season with 27 receptions for 239 yards and two touchdowns.
  • 2018-2019: After a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers, Austin returned to the Rams for his final two seasons. He primarily served as a return specialist, contributing minimally to the offense. His career ended with a Super Bowl ring as a member of the 2019 Rams team.

Challenges and Opportunities

Tavon Austin’s NFL career was marked by both challenges and opportunities, which ultimately influenced his trajectory. His electrifying speed and agility made him a dynamic weapon on offense and special teams, but his relatively small frame and inconsistent usage limited his overall impact.

  • Injuries: Austin was plagued by injuries throughout his career, including a high ankle sprain, a broken hand, and a hamstring injury. These injuries hindered his ability to stay on the field consistently and develop a consistent rhythm in the offense.
  • Coaching Changes and Offensive Schemes: Austin played under multiple head coaches and offensive coordinators throughout his career, which resulted in inconsistent usage and a lack of continuity in his role within the offense. The Rams’ offensive system in particular struggled to fully utilize his skill set, often deploying him in limited roles.
  • Evolving Offensive Schemes: The NFL has seen a significant shift toward more pass-heavy offenses, which presented both opportunities and challenges for Austin. While his speed and agility were well-suited for these offenses, his size and lack of physicality limited his ability to be a reliable target in the passing game.

Career Trajectory vs. Pre-Draft Expectations

Tavon Austin’s NFL career fell short of the high expectations set for him as a first-round draft pick. Despite his impressive athleticism and early success, he struggled to consistently produce at a high level. His injuries, inconsistent usage, and the evolution of the NFL game all played a role in his inability to fulfill his potential.

  • Pre-Draft Expectations: Austin was projected as a dynamic playmaker with the potential to be a game-changer in the NFL. His speed, agility, and versatility were seen as assets that could make him a valuable weapon for any team. Many believed he could be a top-tier receiver and a dangerous return specialist.
  • Factors Influencing Success: While Austin’s athleticism was undeniable, his relatively small size and lack of physicality made him susceptible to injuries and limited his effectiveness as a receiver. He also struggled to find a consistent role in the offenses he played in, often being relegated to a specialized role as a returner. The evolution of the NFL game toward more pass-heavy offenses also presented challenges, as his lack of size and physicality made it difficult for him to be a reliable target in the passing game.

Tavon austin draft pick – Tavon Austin’s draft pick was a moment of high anticipation, showcasing his electrifying speed and agility. The journey of this talented player continued, taking him to the tavon austin dallas cowboys where he aimed to bring his unique skills to the team.

Ultimately, Austin’s draft pick was a testament to the potential he held, inspiring others to chase their dreams with unwavering determination.

Tavon Austin’s electrifying speed and agility made him a coveted prospect in the 2013 NFL Draft, ultimately landing him with the St. Louis Rams. His talent and potential earned him a substantial contract, and you can learn more about his earnings by checking out tavon austin salary.

While his career trajectory didn’t always match the initial hype, his draft selection stands as a testament to his exceptional athleticism and the high hopes placed upon him entering the league.

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