Calvin Austin: Rising NFL Star, Stats, Career & Future Outlook

Calvin Austin is a name NFL fans are hearing more and more frequently — and for good reason. This speedy wide receiver, known for his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability, is making waves in professional football. Whether you’re a Pittsburgh Steelers fan, a fantasy football manager, or simply following rising NFL talent, this guide to Calvin Austin covers everything you need to know about his career, stats, background, and future potential.

Who is Calvin Austin

Calvin Austin III is a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers, drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Born on March 24, 1999, in Memphis, Tennessee, Austin played college football at the University of Memphis, where he emerged as one of the most electric playmakers in the American Athletic Conference (AAC).

Despite his smaller frame — standing at 5’8″ and weighing around 170 lbs — Calvin Austin has consistently proven that heart, speed, and skill can outperform size. Known for his elite speed (he ran a 4.32-second 40-yard dash), he’s drawn comparisons to NFL greats like Tyreek Hill for his quickness and elusiveness.

Calvin Austin College Career Highlights

Austin’s college career is a testament to his resilience and talent. Starting as a walk-on at Memphis, he eventually earned a scholarship and became the team’s top wide receiver. Here are some highlights:

Back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2020 and 2021

Second-team All-AAC selection in 2020

Over 2,500 receiving yards and 22 touchdowns in his college career

Known for big plays, long touchdowns, and crucial third-down conversions

Austin’s success at Memphis made him a standout at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine, where his speed and agility caught the attention of multiple teams, ultimately leading to his selection by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Calvin Austin NFL Journey with the Pittsburgh Steelers

Calvin Austin’s rookie season was unfortunately delayed due to a foot injury that kept him on injured reserve for the entirety of the 2022 NFL season. However, in 2023, Austin made his much-anticipated debut and quickly demonstrated why he could become a future star in the Steelers’ offense.

In his debut NFL season:

Austin showcased elite acceleration and route running

Scored his first career touchdown on a 72-yard reception

Contributed as a punt returner and deep-threat wideout

Played a crucial role in spacing defenses and stretching the field

His ability to impact games with just one touch has made him an exciting component of the Steelers’ offensive strategy. As Pittsburgh continues to develop its young talent, Austin is expected to grow into a more significant role, especially with his ability to create mismatches against slower defenders.

Calvin Austin’s Speed: A Key Asset

One of the most talked-about traits of Calvin Austin is his speed. With a 4.32 40-yard dash time, he ranks among the fastest players in the league. This speed not only makes him a vertical threat but also enhances his value on special teams and jet sweeps.

Speed translates to:

Separation from defenders

Yards after catch (YAC) potential

Big-play opportunities

He’s already shown flashes of being the kind of player who can turn a routine slant into a 60-yard touchdown.

Fantasy Football Value of Calvin Austin

For fantasy football managers looking for deep sleepers or late-round breakout candidates, Calvin Austin should be on the radar. In PPR formats, his quick catches and potential use in gadget plays could result in consistent point production. If the Steelers increase his snap share and target volume, Austin could become a weekly flex option with upside.

Fantasy managers should watch for:

Snap count and target trends

Red zone usage

Matchups vs. weak secondaries

If you’re in a dynasty league, Austin’s youth and skill set make him a valuable long-term asset.

What’s Next for Calvin Austin

As the Steelers continue to evolve their offense under new leadership and quarterback play, Calvin Austin is poised to take on a bigger role. Analysts predict that with a full offseason and healthy training camp, Austin could become a featured weapon in both the slot and wide positions.

Things to watch for in the upcoming season:

Improved chemistry with the quarterback

Expanded route tree and use in pre-snap motion

More touches per game, especially in short-yardage and red-zone situations

Calvin Austin’s trajectory mirrors that of many great underdog stories: underestimated due to size, but overachieving due to work ethic and elite traits.

Calvin Austin Career Outlook

The future looks bright for Calvin Austin. His blend of speed, agility, and football IQ sets him apart from many young receivers in the NFL. While he may not yet be a household name, continued development, coupled with opportunity, could soon change that.

If Austin stays healthy and continues to improve, he could easily emerge as one of the league’s premier slot receivers or deep threats. With the Steelers investing in young talent, Austin’s role is expected to expand over the next few seasons.

FAQs

What are Calvin Austin’s career NFL stats?

As of the 2023 NFL season, Calvin Austin has made a solid start to his professional career, though his full potential is yet to be realized due to limited playing time in his rookie season. He made a significant impact as a punt returner and a deep-threat wide receiver, including a standout 72-yard touchdown reception in his debut season.

What is Calvin Austin’s role with the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Calvin Austin has the potential to become a major contributor to the Steelers’ offense. Known for his speed and agility, Austin is used primarily as a slot receiver and a deep threat. His ability to create mismatches against slower defenders makes him an ideal weapon for Pittsburgh’s passing game. Additionally, his speed could also make him a key player on special teams, particularly as a punt returner.

Is Calvin Austin good for fantasy football?

Yes, Calvin Austin is a potential fantasy football sleeper. While he may not be a top pick in standard drafts, his deep-threat ability and big-play potential make him a strong candidate for late-round selections in deeper leagues. Fantasy managers should monitor his role in the Steelers’ offense, as increased playing time could lead to steady fantasy production, especially in PPR (points per reception) leagues.

What is Calvin Austin’s potential in the NFL?

Calvin Austin’s future in the NFL looks bright. His speed, work ethic, and growing skill set suggest that he could evolve into a top-tier wide receiver in the league. If the Steelers continue to develop their offense and give Austin more opportunities, he could soon be one of the most dangerous deep threats in the NFL.

How tall is Calvin Austin?

Calvin Austin stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall. Although his size might not fit the traditional mold for an NFL wide receiver, his speed and agility make him a dynamic playmaker, proving that smaller stature can be overcome with elite skills.

To Conclude

Calvin Austin is a fast-rising star in the NFL with immense potential. His speed, versatility, and growing role in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense make him a player to watch closely. Whether you’re a fan, a fantasy football manager, or just following rising NFL talent, Calvin Austin is a name you’ll want to remember.

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