The impact of Aus opting out
Photo: John Glaser, USA Today Sports
The looming decision that had Aggie fans on eggshells this week has finally been confirmed. Jhamon Ausbon will sit out the 2020 season and forgo his eligibility to prepare for the 2021 NFL Draft.
Reactions have been swift, from well wishes to questions. Here at The Junction Blog, we are in the same boat - we wish Aus nothing but the best and appreciate his contributions to the program over the last three seasons. But we’re also left scratching our heads.
Over the course of his career, Ausbon amassed 147 catches for 1,818 yards and 8 touchdowns. This past season was his best year with 66 receptions for 872 yards and 5 TDs. The 2020 season was expected to be his most impactful yet as a senior and a team captain. Instead, 2 opted to sit out and prepare for the NFL Draft.
We understand times are weird, and there are extenuating circumstances and fear of the unknowns of the virus that are leading players to opt-out. But from a pure football standpoint, we’ll be clear: this one doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. Right now, Ausbon is likely a late-round draft pick or will go as an undrafted free agent.
While he showed flashes in his A&M career, the stats are not there and the highlight film really isn’t either. Eight touchdowns and a hair over 1,000 yards in a three-year career won’t have NFL GMs beating down your door. Aus could have balled out this year with his good friend Kellen Mond, solidified himself as a leader in the locker room, and shot up draft boards with a good showing, earning himself plenty of money in the process. Instead, he’ll have to earn those paychecks a much harder way - without amassing more stats and adding film to the highlight reel. And to NFL teams, doesn’t this look like he quit on his team in the 11th hour?
The decision had some former A&M players wondering about the possible role of agents in Ausbon’s decision. To be clear, we have no knowledge that this is the case. But with the oddity of the decision, speculation trickled to the top. You can see what Jorvorskie Lane and Daylon Mack had to say about the decision.
So where does A&M go at WR from here?
The biggest loss here: leadership. We’re losing Robin to Kellen’s Batman. Aus would have put up great numbers this year. But the talent behind him can replace his production. His leadership, however, will be sorely missed. Jimbo was high on Ausbon’s character and his leadership.
Our WR room is stacked. If the O-line improves and gives Kellen time, our WR’s have the speed and size to get separation and make big plays.
Hezekiah Jones
The last time I heard his name was when we signed him as a recruit three years ago. His name keeps getting mentioned, but until I see him on the field, I’m more inclined to believe that one of these younger guys will move in.
Demand Demas
The super-freak athlete is the obvious answer. His raw talent is bursting at the seams, and he was likely to get plenty of snaps this year even if Ausbon had stayed. He will get much more time to shine.
Jalen Preston
This kid was a big get for Jimbo in his first recruiting class. He was a Sumlin recruit who stuck around and was expected to come in and make a fast impact. That has yet to be the case, but Aggie fans have been chomping at the bit to see what this kid can do. We’re exited to see this young man develop.
Dylan Wright
If Demand Demas is an Avatar, Dylan Wright is Tarzan. He’s 6’4 215 and looks like if you tried to tackle him, you’d run into a brick wall. He has athleticism that can make an impact and is strong with the ball. Just another absolute DUDE in Jimbo’s holster.
Those are four studs we just mentioned - and we didn’t even get into Caleb Chapman (a former 4-star), Kam Brown (a former 4-star), or speedster Chase Lane who could see plenty of time. See what I mean? Loaded.
Aus will be missed, especially in showing these young guys the ropes as Christian Kirk did for him. But the show goes on, and we’re looking forward to watching these young, talented receivers grow up quickly.
