It was a disappointing week for Los Angeles Rams utility man Tavon Austin. Aside from suffering their third loss of the 2017 NFL season, Austin registered a grand total of just two offensive plays versus the Minnesota Vikings.
However, the injury to leading wide receiver Robert Woods should potentially open the door to more opportunities for the positionless wonder. Regardless of how it happens, Austin is adamant that he will be ready when his time comes, according to Gary Klein of the Los Angeles Times:
“I’m just ready whenever my name gets called,” Austin said.
He added that it has been difficult to watch the offense struggle from the sidelines, however, he understands why his playing time took a dip.
“It was very tough, just on the aspect of the competitor I am, not of nothing else,” Austin said. “We had a plan. We definitely had a plan, and it just didn’t sync up at the time.”
Austin has been primarily used as a running back this year, recording 37 rushes for 171 yards and a touchdown. However, the return of running back Lance Dunbar has seemingly diminished Austin’s role in the backfield due to his similar skill set.
Prior to his injury, Woods had accounted for a majority of the Rams receiving production over the last few weeks. That said, Austin could see more time out in the slot in his absence.
