Anthony Averett

Anthony Averett's Biography

Anthony Averett, an accomplished American cornerback in professional football was born on November 30, 1994. He is presently associated with the Pittsburgh Steelers, a prominent team of the National Football League (NFL). Prior to earning a name in the realm of NFL, Averett acquired his college education and honed his football skills at the eminent University of Alabama.

Averett’s journey towards a successful football career began in his high school years at Woodbury Junior-Senior High School, located in Woodbury, New Jersey. Apart from football, he also exhibited remarkable prowess in track. Among his early sporting accolades, his performance in the 2012 Penn Relays stands out where he won the second position in the long jump. By his senior year, Averett’s long jumping achievements had earned him a reputation as one of the finest high school long jumpers across the nation. With a magnificent jump of 25 feet, two inches, he made his mark by achieving the second-longest jump in the history of New Jersey. His speed was highlighted through his performance in the 100-meters and 55 meters races, where he clocked 10.6 seconds and 6.46 seconds respectively. His versatility was further evident when he high jumped 6 feet, 4 inches. He also played as a defensive back and quarterback in football, eventually committing to the renowned University of Alabama to further his football aspirations.

Arriving at the University of Alabama in 2013, Averett redshirted his first year and played only one game in 2014. The following year, 2015, saw him gaining valuable experience playing in special teams and recording two tackles. His growth as a player was significant as by 2016 he had acquired a spot as a starter and participated in all 15 games that year. He showcased a stellar performance, finishing the season with 48 tackles, one interception, and a sack.

In the NFL Draft of 2018, Averett was chosen by the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth round, securing the 118th overall position. However, his career faced a tumultuous period in October the following year when he was compelled to step back due to a shoulder injury, which led him to be placed on injured reserve. His return to the field was marked on December 8, 2020. One of his key performances since returning was intercepting Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock in the end zone, aiding the Ravens to claim a victory with a score of 23-7 on October 3, 2021. Tragically, later in December, during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Averett received a hit from the opposing team’s tight end C. J. Uzomah that resulted in a fractured rib.

In an important career move, Averett allied himself with the Las Vegas Raiders on March 17, 2022. Unfortunately, in the first week of September, Averett suffered a broken thumb, landing him once again on injured reserve. He was reactivated by mid-October but had to be put back on injured reserve by the end of November.

The subsequent year witnessed him signing with the San Francisco 49ers on August 3, 2023. However, this was short-lived as a mere eight days later he was placed on injured reserve once again and was released on August 17. He then signed with the Detroit Lions, becoming a part of their practice squad in October. This stint also ended abruptly with his release on November 14.

Nevertheless, Averett’s skills and potential remained undeterred, and on May 12, 2024, he signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. A twist occurred when the team released him on August 20, only to re-sign him to their practice squad subsequently.

Apart from his prolific football career, Averett also carries a prestigious family legacy as the nephew of Pro Bowl left tackle Bryant McKinnie, further embedding his name in the dynamic world of American football. Anthony Averett’s journey, featuring numerous triumphs and hurdles, encapsulates a determined and resilient spirit, indicative of his dedication to the sport he excels in.