New England Patriots second-year cornerback Alex Austin announced via his X account that he is back with the team, confirming that the team picked up his option.
Photo courtesy of Patriots.com
Austin, a seventh-round draft pick by the Buffalo Bills less than a year ago, faced a tumultuous journey in his rookie season. Shortly after being drafted, Austin was released by the Bills during final roster cutdowns. However, his NFL journey continued as he was claimed off waivers the next day by the Houston Texans, where he spent a couple of months before being ultimately released on November 1st.
The following day, Austin found a new home with the New England Patriots, where he finished out the season. Despite being thrust into a starting role due to a multitude of injuries, Austin performed admirably. He started four full games for the Patriots and was targeted 22 times, allowing 12 catches for 107 yards and two touchdowns. Notably, he recorded his first interception by picking off Bills QB Josh Allen in week 17.
That wasn't the only restricted free agent to announce their return to the team, as Patriots tackle Tyrone Wheatley Jr. confirmed via his Instagram account that the team also picked up his restricted free agent option.
Photo courtesy of Tyrone Wheatley Jr.'s Instagram.
Wheatley Jr. was one of Bill Belichick's last trade acquisitions. He was acquired from the Cleveland Browns in exchange for 2022 fourth-round pick Pierre Strong Jr.
Wheatley Jr. has had a bit of a tumultuous journey in the NFL. While he has shown promise in preseason games, he only transitioned from tight end to tackle in 2021. Despite facing challenges, Wheatley Jr. serves as a project tackle whom the Patriots hope to continue developing.
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