Although they never shared the same field in Morgantown, two Mountaineers could wear the same uniform in New York.
The Giants are looking to strengthen their stable of receivers. They already have the former WVU touchdown-scoring machine in David Sills on the roster. He spent most of his rookie season in the Giants’ practice squad before getting called up to the active roster.
Tavon Austin is still available as a free-agent, and his connection to their coaching staff could bring him into consideration as ESNY’s Ryan Honey suggests:
I know, Tavon Austin is nowhere near a tall option at 5-foot-8. Nonetheless, he has pure familiarity with Giants offensive coordinator Jason Garrett, who was his head coach in Dallas from 2018-19. Thus, Austin knows Garrett’s playbook and could easily become accustomed to the gameplans.
Austin hasn’t impressed much in the passing game since the 2016 campaign — one of his final years with the Rams. During that season, he recorded career-highs in both receptions (58) and yards (509) and notched three touchdown catches. Since that year, he’s caught a combined 34 balls for 364 yards and three touchdowns.
To be honest, he’s probably the last guy on this list who I’d want the Giants to sign, but you have to admit connections mean something in this league. Austin’s prior relationship with Garrett along with his offensive playbook could lead to the 30-year-old potentially signing a cheap deal to come to East Rutherford.
Whichever team Austin signs with will be the third of his pro career.
Could a destination closer to his childhood home in Maryland and the place of his college years in West Virginia be in his future?