5 Patriots players whose stock is rising after OTAs

Alex Austin

The defense continues to reign supreme this offseason, and although the roster is packed with a long list of well-known names, Alex Austin has remained a standout on the practice field.

The second-year cornerback got on the radar late last season when a few impressive plays brought his name into conversation. He was able to take advantage of Christian Gonzalez and J.C. Jackson's absence and show off what he could do when given the opportunity.

Austin impressed coaches so much, even in a limited capacity; he was one of the earliest free-agent signings earlier this year. And now, he's continuing his hot streak during practice by demonstrating the valued qualities it takes to be successful and stand out in a well-oiled defense.

Jerod Mayo has shared how pleased he is with Austin's progress, which will be even more helpful this year after the losses of Myles Bryant, J.C. Jackson, and Jalen Mills in free agency.

“When we finished up last year, he was one of those guys where we’re like, ‘Look, this is an NFL player.' And it’s good to see him coming back in shape, going out here and making plays. So, it’s good to see.”

How his role will evolve over the summer it will be fascinating to watch. We know that Gonzalez and Jonathan Jones will be the one-two punch of the cornerback room, leaving Austin to try and find his niche somehow.

Based on how he's performing this early in the offseason with minicamp right around the corner, he looks to have all the tools to make it happen and carve a spot in the lineup for himself. He's talented, young, and determined, which is a recipe for success, and the fact that important people (like Mayo) are seeing it already is a good sign for his future.