In a stunning turn of events, former St. Louis Rams first-round pick Tavon Austin has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. This announcement came via an emotional Instagram post on Tuesday, where Austin reflected on his career and the difficult decision to walk away from the game he loves.
Austin, who last played on an active roster in the 2021 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, had been pushing to make a comeback in the league. However, after much contemplation, he realized that it was time to close this chapter of his life. “No matter how hard you work or how badly you want something, sometimes God has other plans,” Austin shared in his heartfelt post. “I wasn’t sure if I was ready to give up football, and it has been one of the most challenging decisions I’ve ever made. But after an incredible 10 years, I’m officially retiring from the NFL.”
The Rams originally selected Austin as the No. 8 overall pick in the 2013 NFL draft. He quickly became a key player for the team, especially during the 2016 season when he put up impressive numbers with 58 catches for 509 yards and three touchdowns in 15 games. Throughout his career, Austin showcased his versatility by contributing as a ball carrier, recording 52 carries for 434 yards and four touchdowns in 2015. He also made a mark as a return specialist, averaging 7.8 yards per attempt on 190 punt returns with three touchdowns.
Following his tenure with the Rams, Austin went on to play for the Dallas Cowboys for two seasons before a brief stint with the Green Bay Packers in 2020. He then landed with the Jaguars for the 2021 season. Despite a brief time on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad in 2022, Austin never saw game action before being released in October of that year.
As Austin closes this chapter of his life, his contributions to the NFL will not be forgotten. His speed, agility, and playmaking abilities made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent on the field. While it’s bittersweet to see him hang up his cleats, one thing is certain: Tavon Austin’s legacy in the NFL will endure for years to come.