Throughout the next couple weeks, I will go in depth on each rookie on the St. Louis Rams and how they will have an impact on the team in any capacity. First up is the first player selected by the Rams in the 2013 NFL Draft.
It’s safe to say the biggest draft pick for the St. Louis Rams in 2013 is wide receiver Tavon Austin. Drafted from West Virginia, Austin played wide receiver primarily, but also was a lead returner and even played snaps at running back. The Rams were able to draft him at No. 8 in the first round.
In 52 games at West Virginia, Austin had 288 receptions for 3413 total yards, and 29 touchdowns. As for rushing, he had 110 carries for 1033 yards and 6 touchdowns. All in all, Austin, to say the least, had a very exceptional college football career.
His arrival comes at a critical time in St. Louis. Quarterback Sam Bradford lost his top two receivers last year in Danny Amendola and Brandon Gibson. Austin also is competing for the lead returner position for a special teams group that struggled in punt returns and kick returns last year.
One key component about Austin is his speed. He ran a 4.25 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, and he possesses breakaway speed, which makes up for his 5’9″ stature. Austin also has incredible ball handling skills which attributed to his 288 receptions at West Virginia. He was arguably the best receiver going into the draft, and the Rams jumped on the chance to draft him, knowing that with only Chris Givens and Brian Quick as the main wideouts for the team. The Rams also picked up former Titans tight end Jared Cook during free agency, giving Bradford another very effective target.
Austin has shown great promise during training camp at Rams Park, and with a young offense surrounding him, he will develop along with his teammates with experience. Needless to say, Tavon Austin is going to play a major part for the Rams, as they look to go back to their winning ways. (Photo by David Welker/Getty Images)
