Austin is another defensive back that I’ve seen literally grow up over the years and it’s really fun to see a player physically develop and show the growth in their technique. In this showcase, that’s what I really liked about him. Austin has always had a “next play” mentality, and he doesn’t get fazed by giving up a completion or not doing a rep perfectly in a drill. He’s going to come back, learn from the mistake, then execute at a high level going forward. Austin has also started to get some recruiting interest and offers coming his way. Currently he has offers from Charleston (WV) and Concord University, and with more good work this summer I can see him adding to this list easily.

A versatile defender who can play both corner and safety, Roberts impressed this spring at the CFI Showcase, earning top performer accolades at the camp for the second straight season. His play strength far exceeds his size and he’s able to make quick breaks on the ball and deliver big hits. His versatility is his best weapon, as he thrived at deep safety, field corner, and in the slot, where he’s most likely to live at the college level.

Austin was a Top Performer at last year’s CFI Spring Showcase, and he continues to show consistency and growth in his game. Austin has a big chance to step into an increased role this upcoming season for the Panthers, as two senior defensive backs graduated last year. With his size, Austin most likely projects as a slot defensive back on the next level, but Austin showed good footwork and nice long speed on deep passes throughout the showcase.

I have seen Austin up close at showcases where he was one of the top defensive backs in attendance, so I think he is appropriately ranked for where his game is at the moment. I think as Austin continues to grow and mature physically, his projection is a slot corner on the next level. Austin has good speed and discipline to compete in both man and zone coverage – though I think man coverage is his strength at the moment. The slot I think best fits Austin because he exudes some quick feet and change of direction ability, skills that are necessary for success in that particular defensive back position.