Tavon Austin, one of NFL's most dynamic players, announces retirement after 10 seasons

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: After 10 seasons in the NFL, wide receiver and return specialist Tavon Austin announced his retirement on Tuesday, August 14.

Austin, 34, has not appeared in a regular-season game since 2021 but took to Instagram to reflect on his decision to step away from the sport.

Tavon Austin retires from NFL

Tavon Austin expressed deep gratitude for his NFL journey, stating, "No matter how hard you work or how badly you want something, sometimes God has other plans." He acknowledged the difficulty of his decision, emphasizing that it was one of the most challenging choices he'd ever faced.

He also thanked his fans, teams, coaches, and staff members who supported him throughout his career, before adding, "I hope you all knew that I played from the heart and gave my ALL every day, regardless of the circumstances."

He added, "To my teammates, I made some everlasting memories with you guys, and it was an honor to share the field with you. To my family, I couldn’t have done it without your love and support; you witnessed my physical, mental, and emotional battles on and off the field."

Austin continued his farewell post with heartfelt reflections, stating, "Football gave me more than a career. It gave me some lifelong friendships and molded so much of my character. It taught me how vital choices are and how decision-making affects you. Football created in me a mindset of relentless pursuit and hard work ethic! Football didn’t always love me back, but it will always be my first love! I will forever cherish the time I spent in the NFL. It has indeed been a privilege. Just like seasons, they come to an end, and it’s time for me to enter my next chapter in life. With gratitude and respect, Tay Austin!"

Drafted eighth overall by the Rams in 2013, Austin quickly made a name for himself with his explosive speed and versatility.

He spent five seasons with the Rams before moving on to the Dallas Cowboys, Green Bay Packers, and Jacksonville Jaguars.

Austin's career stats include 1,361 rushing yards, 2,239 receiving yards, 1,483 kickoff return yards, and 451 punt return yards, along with 16 receiving touchdowns, 10 rushing touchdowns, and three kickoff return touchdowns. In 2022, he was on the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad before requesting his release.

Austin’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player known for his dynamic playmaking ability and impact on the field.

NFL fans call Tavon Austin 'legend' after he announces retirement

Known for his electrifying highlights and unmatched versatility, Tavon Austin's decision to step away from football has left many fans and fellow players nostalgic.

One fan expressed admiration for Austin and wrote, "Such a legend," while another shared a deep appreciation for his skills, writing, "I've seen this highlight tape start to finish more times than any other highlight tapes I've ever watched combined."

The outpouring of support continued with one social media user celebrating Austin’s legacy, "Happy retirement. I’ll always show my kids your mixtape!!"

Another fan fondly remembered the excitement of watching Austin in action and commented, "Real ones know what it was like to sit in front of the TV to watch Tavon Austin highlights."

For many, Austin's retirement marks the end of an era. "Sad to see Tavon Austin retire, but he definitely made his mark as one of the most dynamic college players ever. Thanks for the excitement and memories!" shared one fan.

Another said, "Highlight tapes will never be the same."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.