Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Blessuan Austin (Rutgers) - 2019 NFL Draft Pick #196 by NYJ

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Pre-Draft Analysis for Blessuan Austin - 2019 NFL Draft

Player Overview:

Blessuan Austin, a cornerback from Rutgers University, entered the 2019 NFL Draft with a mix of potential and concerns stemming from injuries during his college career. Known for his size and physicality, Austin showcased the ability to compete against top-tier receivers in the Big Ten.

Strengths:

• Size and Length: Standing at 6'1" and weighing around 200 pounds, Austin possesses the ideal size for a cornerback, allowing him to match up well against larger receivers.
• Physicality: He is known for his aggressive playstyle, excelling in press coverage and demonstrating the ability to jam receivers at the line of scrimmage.
• Ball Skills: Austin has shown the ability to make plays on the ball, with a knack for intercepting passes and breaking up throws.
• Run Support: He is not afraid to come up and support the run, displaying good tackling ability and willingness to engage with ball carriers.

Weaknesses:

• Injury History: Austin's college career was marred by injuries, including a significant knee injury that limited his playing time. This raises concerns about his durability at the next level.
• Technique Issues: While he has physical tools, his technique in coverage can be inconsistent. He sometimes relies too much on his athleticism instead of sound fundamentals.
• Development Needed: He may require time to refine his skills and adapt to the speed and complexity of the NFL game, particularly in zone coverage schemes.

Overall Potential:

Blessuan Austin has the potential to be a solid contributor in the NFL if he can stay healthy and improve his technique. His size and physicality could make him a valuable asset in man coverage schemes, while his ball skills offer the chance for big plays on defense. Teams may view him as a project who could develop into a starting cornerback with the right coaching and experience.