Tavon Austin
NFL Wide Receiver and Special Teams Returner · Football - NFL
West Virginia Mountaineers / St. Louis - Los Angeles Rams
Era
Circa 2013-2017
Item Type
Multi-signed Souvenir Football
Condition
Excellent condition; signature is bold with high contrast and minimal fading. Surface is clean.
Rarity
Common; prolific signer during his peak years in the NFL and collegiate stardom.
Overall Assessment
A genuine, bold example of a Tavon Austin signature on a standard NFL souvenir item.
Authenticity Assessment
Highly likely authentic (Confidence Level: 95%)
Signature Style
Stylized script; typically features a large, loops 'T' and a distinct 'A' often combined into a rapid scrawl with number '1' or '11' in later years, but here appearing as 'T' with jersey number '1' inside.
Signature Characteristics
Fluid motion, high-speed execution, consistent pen pressure with no hesitation marks.
Ink & Medium
Black permanent marker (Sharpie-style) on white synthetic leather football surface.
Item Description
White paneled autograph-style football intended for team signatures; features 'INFLATE 11-13 LBS' text.
Estimated Value
$20 - $50 (as part of a team/multi-signed ball)
Comparison to Known Examples
Consistent with 'rookie era' signatures from 2013-2015 Rams team signing events.
Authentication Tips
Look for the large initial loop often encircling his jersey number. His 'A' is often sharp and leans right.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA
Red Flags
No significant red flags observed; the ink absorption into the synthetic leather is consistent with authentic markers.
Provenance Notes
Likely obtained at a training camp or team charitable event based on the ball type.
Historical Context
Austin was one of the most electric college players in history at WVU and a top 10 NFL draft pick.
Market Trends
Values for mid-career players are stable but currently low compared to active superstars.
Investment Potential
Low; primarily valued as a collectible for Rams or West Virginia fans.
Similar Autographs
Stedman Bailey, Todd Gurley, Robert Quinn (Rams era teammates).
Display & Preservation
Keep in a UV-protected acrylic case to prevent the synthetic leather from yellowing.
Interesting Facts
Austin was known for signing very quickly, often resulting in his 'T' look like a circle or large 'O'.