Alex Austin (Oregon St.) - 2023 NFL Draft Pick #252 by BUF
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Alex Austin - Oregon State
Position: Cornerback
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200 lbs
Overview:
Alex Austin emerged as a standout cornerback during his time at Oregon State, showcasing a combination of size, athleticism, and coverage skills that caught the attention of NFL scouts. Throughout his college career, he demonstrated the ability to effectively match up against a variety of receivers, making him a valuable asset for any defensive scheme.
Strengths:
- Size and Length: Austin possesses an ideal frame for a cornerback, allowing him to battle with larger receivers effectively.
- Physicality: He is not afraid to play physically at the line of scrimmage, using press coverage techniques to disrupt routes.
- Ball Skills: Austin has shown good instincts and awareness, often making plays on the ball and creating turnovers.
- Versatility: He can play both outside and in the slot, providing flexibility in defensive schemes.
- Work Ethic: Coaches praise his dedication and willingness to learn, which bodes well for his development at the next level.
Areas for Improvement:
- Footwork: While generally solid, his footwork can become inconsistent, particularly when transitioning from backpedal to sprint.
- Recovery Speed: Needs to improve his recovery speed against quicker receivers, as he can struggle if beaten off the line.
- Zone Coverage: While effective in man coverage, he will need to refine his zone coverage skills to excel in various defensive schemes.
Projected Draft Range:
Alex Austin is projected to be selected in the
3rd to 5th round of the 2023 NFL Draft, depending on team needs and his performance in pre-draft evaluations, including the NFL Combine and Pro Days.
Conclusion:
With his combination of physical tools and competitive nature, Alex Austin has the potential to make an impact in the NFL. If he can refine his technique and continue to develop his game, he could emerge as a capable starting cornerback in the league.