Blessuan Austin, CB, Rutgers #10
6002, 195, 4.57
Notes: From Queens, NY. Played in 11 games with 10 starts at cornerback, making 33 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 INT (returned 50 yards for touchdown), 5 PBU and 1 FF in 2015. Started 11 games at cornerback, with 41 tackles, 1 sack, 1 INT, 15 PBU and 1 FR in 2016. Started 4 games at cornerback in 2017, collecting 12 tackles, 1 INT and 1 PBU before suffering a torn ACL and missing the rest of the season in 2017. Started strong returning from injury in 2018, with 3 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 INT and 1 PBU, but injured his knee again in the season opener and will sit out the remainder of 2018. Austin could petition the NCAA for a medical redshirt, but will like rehabilitate and prepare for a chance in the NFL in 2019.
Positives: Nice size and athletic ability. Long, lanky frame with long arms. Natural feel for the game. Very good ball skills and hands for the interception.
Negatives: Medical concerns with the knee and hasn’t played much since 2016.
Summary: Was an early-round prospect with upside potential to rise based on his play in 2016. Much will depend on his medical reports and pre-draft workouts now.
