RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

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

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

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.