Patriots Corner Has Taken Reps at Different Position

Sleeper’s Carlos Lopez reports that Austin has been getting more reps this OTAs by playing the slot cornerback position.

The Patriots addressed their cornerback needs by adding former Detroit Lions main coverage corner Carlton Davis. Austin will be contending for a playing spot with a loaded secondary that includes Davis, Pro-Bowler Christian Gonzalez, nickelback Marcus Jones, safety Jabrill Peppers, and Kyle Dugger.

Through his first two years in the league, Austin has played 17 games while starting in four. He has accounted for 18 total tackles, 15 solo tackles, one tackle for loss, seven pass breakups, and one interception.

Austin had a boost of playing time after being picked up by New England in his 2023 rookie season while on the Houston Texans’ practice roster. With the impressive new additions in the secondary, Austin needs to make himself stand out more.

He has a chance to play the slot at 6-1, more than most of the other, less experienced veteran cornerbacks. There won’t be many excuses for players like Austin, where coaches need to see his improvement since the end of last season. Playing in a new role should give him a new purpose and a longer stay on the roster.