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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have a roster full of players, and we want to talk about them all. One Foot Down’s player profile series will take a look at every single one of them, and hopefully we all learn a little bit more about these guys, and Notre Dame’s chances for the upcoming 2019 season.
#4 Kevin Austin, Jr., WR
Kevin Austin is a sophomore both academically and in eligibility. He hails from Fort Lauderdale, FL and North Broward Prep HS. He is currently slotted as one of the wide receivers on the roster, and he will more than likely look to play a supporting role with the wide outs this season.
In his first year on the team, he was pretty much overshadowed by Miles Boykin, a third round draft pick in this year’s NFL draft, Chase Claypool, and Chris Finke. However, Kevin did see some game action last season (10 total games). He grabbed 5 catches for a total of 90 yards. Additionally, one of his catches was a 38-yard catch against Navy. He saw his first catch come against Vanderbilt.
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Taylor Swift, Chicago, Bon Jovi
“25 or 6 to 4” - Chicago feat. Band of the Fighting Irish
Because 4, like Kevin’s number. Get it?!
Also because of the oldest college marching band and the best.
Hey Dog Hey!
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SIBERIAN HUSKY
Kevin Austin is a Siberian Husky. They are “friendly and outgoing, but alert.” He looks that way with his play. Pretty tame so far, but he can be alert and fierce, ready to go. Just see that picture above against Navy.
2019 Outlook
As Joshua noted after a spring practice in March, Kevin Austin has some shoes to fill. Miles Boykin was drafted by the Ravens in April, so that leaves a spot open at wide receiver. Now, Chris Finke and Chase Claypool are still on the roster. Their experience and ability will show. However, Kevin will be working with Michael Young to fill that void left by Boykin. I think we will see an increase in Kevin’s playing time and ability, as usually comes with age and development within the program.
Additionally, Kevin did not make the final couple of road trips at the end of the season. Joshua also said in the above article that BK must have put him in the doghouse, but he is crawling his way out of that from his performance in spring ball. A good summer and then fall camp could put Kevin into the lineup many more times to improve his game. Don’t be surprised if you see more of #4 this season out wide in that spread offense.
Youtube Hot Fire
He only had a few catches last season, so we’ll show his signing day video from the team.