Anthony Averett Bio
Anthony Averett, born on November 30, 1994, in Woodbury, New Jersey, is an American professional football cornerback competing in the National Football League. He played college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide, where he was a member of two College Football Playoff national championship teams. Selected in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Averett has since suited up for several organizations around the league. He is the nephew of former Pro Bowl left tackle Bryant McKinnie.
Early Life and Background
Anthony Averett grew up in Woodbury, New Jersey, and attended Woodbury Junior-Senior High School. At the 2012 Penn Relays, he placed second in the long jump, and during his senior year he was one of the best high school long jumpers in the nation with a mark of 25 feet, two inches. That distance stood as the second-longest jump in New Jersey history. He also ran the 100 meters in 10.6 seconds, the 55 meters in 6.46 seconds, and high jumped 6 feet, 4 inches.
On the football field, Averett played both defensive back and quarterback in high school, showing the versatility that would later define his career. After completing his high school career, he committed to the University of Alabama to play college football. His track background gave him rare speed and explosiveness for the cornerback position.
Path to American Football
Averett’s journey to professional football began at the University of Alabama, one of the most storied programs in college football. He redshirted his first year in 2013 and saw action in only one game during the 2014 season, learning behind a talented defensive backs group. In 2015, he contributed primarily on special teams, recording two tackles while the Crimson Tide won the College Football Playoff National Championship.
By 2016, Averett had earned a starting role, playing in all 15 games and finishing with 48 tackles, one interception, and one sack. His development continued the following year when Alabama captured another national title in 2017. Those championship experiences, combined with the coaching at Alabama, prepared him for the next level. He entered the 2018 NFL Draft as a polished, battle-tested cornerback prospect.
Anthony Averett Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
The Baltimore Ravens selected Anthony Averett in the fourth round, 118th overall, of the 2018 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he worked primarily as a reserve cornerback while adjusting to the speed and complexity of the professional game. Over his first two seasons in Baltimore, he appeared in rotational roles and on special teams, gradually building the trust of the defensive coaching staff.
In 2020, Averett was placed on injured reserve on October 22 with a shoulder injury and was activated on December 8. Despite the setback, he returned to contribute during the latter part of the season. Those early years in Baltimore were formative, allowing him to develop the technique and awareness that would later make him a more consistent contributor in the secondary.
Baltimore Ravens Breakthrough (2021)
The 2021 season marked Averett’s most productive stretch with the Baltimore Ravens. On October 3, 2021, he intercepted Denver Broncos quarterback Drew Lock in the end zone, helping Baltimore secure a 23–7 victory. The play showcased his ball skills and field awareness, which had been developing since his college days at Alabama.
His season was cut short on December 26, 2021, when he suffered a fractured rib after taking a hit from Cincinnati Bengals tight end C. J. Uzomah during a Week 16 game. Despite the injury, Averett had established himself as a reliable starting cornerback. His time in Baltimore came to a close at the end of the 2021 season, opening the door for the next chapter of his career.
Las Vegas Raiders Era (2022)
Anthony Averett signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on March 17, 2022, looking for an opportunity to be a full-time starter. However, his season was disrupted almost immediately when he suffered a broken thumb in Week 1 and was placed on injured reserve on September 12, 2022. He was activated on October 22 and returned to action for the Raiders.
His time in Las Vegas was short-lived, as he was placed back on injured reserve on November 29, 2022. The injuries limited his ability to build momentum with the Raiders, and his tenure with the team concluded at the end of the season. Despite the setbacks, Averett remained focused on continuing his professional career elsewhere.
San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions (2023)
On August 3, 2023, Averett signed with the San Francisco 49ers, hoping to carve out a role in their defensive backfield. Eight days later, he was placed on injured reserve. He was released by the 49ers on August 17, ending a brief stay in San Francisco.
The Detroit Lions signed Averett to their practice squad on October 10, 2023, providing him with an opportunity to continue his career. He remained with the Lions until November 14, 2023, when he was released. The 2023 season reflected the journeyman phase of his career, moving from one organization to the next while staying ready for the next opportunity.
Pittsburgh Steelers Era (2024)
On May 12, 2024, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed Averett to a one-year deal, giving him another chance to compete for a roster spot. He was released on August 20, 2024, and later re-signed to the Steelers’ practice squad. His time in Pittsburgh was again brief, as he was released on October 28, 2024.
Despite the lack of a long-term fit in Pittsburgh, the Steelers stint added another chapter to Averett’s professional journey. His persistence through multiple teams demonstrated the resilience required to sustain a career in the NFL. By the end of the 2024 season, he remained determined to find a stable role.
Houston Texans Era (2025–Present)
On January 6, 2025, Anthony Averett was signed to the Houston Texans practice squad, beginning a new chapter with the organization. On January 21, 2025, he signed a reserve/future contract with the team, signaling an investment in his experience and leadership. He was released on March 17, 2025, but his NFL journey continued.
As of 2025, Averett remains active in professional football, bringing a wealth of experience from multiple organizations. His time with the Texans has been brief but reflects the ongoing nature of his career, always ready for the next opportunity.
Driving Style and Strengths
Anthony Averett is widely regarded as a cornerback with a strong athletic foundation, particularly in terms of speed and explosiveness. His track and field background, including his elite long jump performances in high school, translates into excellent acceleration and recovery speed on the field. These attributes allow him to stay with receivers downfield and contest throws effectively. His time at Alabama and across multiple NFL organizations has refined his technique and football IQ.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the most memorable moments of Averett’s career came on October 3, 2021, when he intercepted Drew Lock in the end zone to help the Baltimore Ravens defeat the Denver Broncos 23–7. At the collegiate level, he was part of two College Football Playoff national championship teams at Alabama, in 2015 and 2017. Being drafted in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft also marked a significant milestone, confirming his status as a professional prospect.
Anthony Averett Career Wins
Anthony Averett’s career is defined more by his longevity, versatility, and championship experience than by headline-grabbing win totals. As a cornerback, his contributions are measured in coverage snaps, interceptions, and team success rather than traditional win totals. His selection in the 2018 NFL Draft and his participation in multiple postseason-caliber rosters highlight the value he has brought to his teams.
Baltimore Ravens Highlights
During his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Averett played a key role in a defense known for its physicality and ball-hawking secondary. His interception of Drew Lock in 2021 stands out as one of the signature plays of his career with the team. Despite injuries that cut short portions of his seasons, he remained a respected member of the Ravens’ defensive unit.
Other Wins & Performances
Averett’s two College Football Playoff national championships with Alabama in 2015 and 2017 are among the most prestigious achievements of his career. While his NFL career has taken him through several teams, his experience and veteran presence have been valuable assets wherever he has gone.
Anthony Averett Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Anthony Averett comes from a family with a strong football lineage. He is the nephew of Bryant McKinnie, a former Pro Bowl left tackle who had a long and successful career in the NFL. This family connection provided Averett with early insight into the demands and rewards of professional football. Growing up in Woodbury, New Jersey, he was surrounded by a supportive environment that nurtured his athletic talents.
Personal Life
Beyond his football career, Anthony Averett maintains a private personal life. His social media presence offers glimpses into his life off the field, though he generally keeps family matters out of the public eye. His journey from a standout high school athlete in New Jersey to a professional cornerback reflects a life dedicated to the sport.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Anthony Averett’s season has been defined by movement between practice squads and reserve contracts, a common path for veteran players seeking stability. After signing with the Houston Texans’ practice squad in January 2025 and later inking a reserve/future contract, he was released in March 2025. His experience and versatility continue to make him a candidate for opportunities around the league.
The 2025 season outlook for Averett remains fluid, as he navigates the journeyman phase of his career. With his track record of resilience and his championship pedigree from Alabama, he remains a valuable asset for teams in need of secondary depth. His ability to adapt to new systems and contribute on special teams keeps him in demand.
Looking ahead, Averett’s primary goal is to secure a stable roster spot where he can contribute meaningfully to a defensive backfield. His track speed, coverage skills, and veteran presence make him a strong candidate for teams looking to bolster their secondary depth. As the 2025 season progresses, his next opportunity could come at any time.