Former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver announces retirement

Former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Tavon Austin has announced his retirement from the NFL. Austin spent the final season of his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, starting three games and appearing in 13 during the 2021 season. That year, Austin caught 24 passes for 213 yards and one touchdown. He also contributed sparingly in the running game and on special teams as a returner.

Austin started his career in the NFL with the (then) St. Louis Rams and spent his first five seasons with the Rams. Austin became a full-time starter with the Rams during his third season, and finished his Rams career with 194 catches for 1689 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also figured heavily into the Rams rushing attack during his time with the team, carrying the ball 184 times for 1238 yards and an additional nine touchdowns.

In his prime, Austin was also a dangerous return specialist. During his stint with the Rams, he served as their primary punt returner, returning 158 punts over five seasons and taking three of them back for touchdowns.

Injuries derailed Austin’s career, and he spent the next three seasons playing sparingly for the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers before landing in Jacksonville for what turned out to be his final season in the league. At his peak, Austin was the definition of a “just get him the ball”-type player. Austin was dangerous in the open field and was a threat to score from anywhere on the field.