Former first-round pick Tavon Austin announces retirement From NFL

Former first-round pick Tavon Austin announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, August 13 2024 via Instagram.

Austin, 34, affectionately known as “The Pocket Rocket,” was drafted eighth overall by the St. Louis Rams in 2013 and enjoyed a nine-season NFL career, primarily with the Rams.

He also had stints with the Cowboys, Packers, and Jaguars from 2019 to 2021 and spent time on the Bills’ practice squad in 2022 before requesting his release.

In his heartfelt Instagram post, Austin expressed gratitude to the organizations, coaches, and staff who believed in him and credited football for transforming his life.

He concluded by saying, “I will forever cherish the time I spent in the NFL. It has indeed been a privilege. Just like seasons, they come to an end, and it’s time for me to enter my next chapter in life.”

Throughout his NFL career, Austin was a dynamic and versatile threat, accumulating 1,361 rushing yards, 2,239 receiving yards, 1,483 kickoff return yards, and 451 punt return yards. He scored 16 receiving touchdowns, 10 rushing touchdowns, and three touchdowns as a returner.

Austin’s collegiate career at West Virginia was equally impressive, amassing 4,446 yards from scrimmage, 2,840 return yards, and 40 touchdowns across 52 games for the Mountaineers.