Introduction
Calvin Austin III is one of the fastest wide receivers in the NFL and a dynamic playmaker known for his elite speed and agility. Despite being undersized compared to many receivers, Austin has built a reputation for explosive plays and quick acceleration. After starring in college football at Memphis Tigers football, he entered the 2022 NFL Draft and was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers. His blazing speed, highlighted by a remarkable NFL Combine performance, helped him gain national attention.
Calvin Austin Highlights
Austin’s highlight reels showcase his ability to stretch defenses and create big plays. Known for sharp route running and elite burst off the line, he consistently beats defenders deep and excels after the catch.
At Memphis, Austin delivered several standout seasons, including a 2021 campaign with 74 receptions, 1,149 yards, and 8 touchdowns, averaging over 15 yards per catch. His ability to turn short passes into long gains made him one of the most exciting offensive weapons in the American Athletic Conference.
In the NFL, Austin continues to be used as a deep-threat receiver and special teams return option because of his quickness and open-field speed.
NFL Combine Performance
Austin significantly boosted his draft stock during the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine with impressive athletic testing. His performance proved that his speed and explosiveness translate beyond college game film.
Key combine numbers include:
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40-yard dash: 4.32 seconds
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Vertical jump: 39 inches
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Broad jump: 11 feet 3 inches
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20-yard shuttle: 4.07 seconds
These results ranked among the best for wide receivers in his draft class and highlighted his elite acceleration and lower-body explosiveness.
Calvin Austin 40 Yard Dash
The most talked-about part of Austin’s combine was his 4.32-second 40-yard dash, one of the fastest times recorded by a receiver in that year’s event.
This time placed him in the 96th percentile among wide receivers, confirming what scouts already saw on film—Austin’s game-breaking speed.
His track background also played a major role in developing that speed. In high school, Austin was a multi-time sprint champion, which helped him develop elite acceleration and top-end speed.
College Career at Memphis
Austin played college football for the Memphis Tigers football, where he became one of the team’s most productive offensive players.
Key College Achievements
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2021: 74 receptions, 1,149 yards, 8 TDs
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2020: 63 receptions, 1,053 yards, 11 TDs
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Multiple All-Conference honors
His speed allowed him to excel both as a receiver and a return specialist. Austin’s ability to play both inside and outside receiver positions made him a versatile offensive weapon during his college career.
Calvin Austin Height and Physical Profile
Austin is known for being one of the smaller receivers in the NFL, but he compensates with elite athleticism.
Physical Measurements:
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Height: 5 ft 8 in (173 cm)
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Weight: around 170 lbs
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Arm Length: 30 inches
While his height ranks near the lower percentile for wide receivers, his quickness and agility help him create separation from defenders.
Conclusion
Calvin Austin III has proven that size isn’t everything in the NFL. With elite speed, explosive athletic ability, and impressive college production at Memphis Tigers football, he became a valuable offensive weapon for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
From his 4.32-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine to his highlight-reel plays on the field, Austin continues to demonstrate why speed remains one of the most dangerous weapons in football.
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