In the history of college football, there are few highlight reels more impactful than that of former West Virginia wide receiver Tavon Austin, who was one of the few players to ever accomplish that feat at his position in college. His highlight reel from his senior year at West Virginia has been viewed 24 million times on YouTube. And on Wednesday, West Virginia alumnus Pat McAfee decided to honor Austin’s greatness after he decided to retire on Tuesday. He celebrated his illustrious career and took the time to honor the former West Virginia legend.
Tavon Austin is officially retiring from the NFL after a nine-year career, he announced on his Instagram account on Tuesday. The wide receiver last played for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021, appearing in 13 games that season.
Austin was selected eighth overall in the 2013 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams and played five seasons with the team, including brief stints with the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers. He finished his pro career with 244 catches for 2,239 yards and 16 touchdowns.
“No matter how hard you work or how badly you want something, sometimes God has a different plan,” Austin wrote. “I wasn’t sure I was ready to give up football and it was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, but after 10 amazing years I am officially retiring from the NFL.”
“…Football has given me so much more than a career. It has given me lifelong friendships and deeply shaped my character. It has taught me how choices matter and how decisions can impact others. Football has instilled in me a spirit of relentless pursuit and hard work. Football hasn’t always loved me back, but it will always be my first love! I will forever cherish my time in the NFL.”
Tavon Austin breaks West Virginia record
During his time at West Virginia University football, Austin solidified himself as one of the all-time greats in Mountaineers history. He finished the game with 3,413 total yards receiving and 29 touchdown catches. His 3,413 yards receiving placed him just ahead of another WVU legend, Stedman Bailey, for first place in school history. Austin also recorded 112 catches in 2012, tying him for first place in school history for catches in a single season (Stedman Bailey, 2012). Austin also recorded 101 catches in 2011, fourth-highest in school history. His 29 collegiate touchdowns rank third in WVU football history, behind Stedman Bailey (41) and David Sills V (35).
Austin earned numerous honors during his stellar collegiate career, including the Paul Hornung Award (2012), two-time First Team All-American selection (2011 and 2012), Big 12 Conference Special Teams Player of the Year (2012) and Big East Conference Special Teams Player of the Year (2011).
There is no doubt that he left a legacy at Morgantown that will never be equaled, and he will forever be remembered as one of the greatest men to ever come from this school.
Chandler Vessels of On3 also contributed to this article.
