Austin Mylek Keys (born April 3, 2002) is an American professional football linebacker for the Washington Commanders of National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Ole Miss Rebels and Auburn Tigers.
Early life Keys attended Seminary High School located in Seminary, Mississippi. He was rated as a three-star recruit and committed to play college football for the Ole Miss Rebels.
College career Ole Miss As a freshman in 2020, Keys took a redshirt. In 2021, he recorded 12 tackles in six games before an injury cut his season short. In 2022, Keys notched 39 tackles with three and a half being for a loss, two sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. After the season, he entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.
Auburn Keys transferred to play for the Auburn Tigers. He made his Auburn debut in the 2023 season opener, where he made the start, notching two tackles in a win over UMass. In week 11, Keys put up three tackles, a pass deflection, and a forced fumble versus Vanderbilt. He finished the 2023 season, playing in eight games due to injury, where he recorded 30 tackles with three for a loss, two sacks, and a forced fumble. During the 2024 season, Keys tallied 39 tackles and two pass deflections.
Professional career
Minnesota Vikings After not being selected in the 2025 NFL draft, Keys signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent. He made the initial 53-man roster on August 26, 2025. He was one of the seven undrafted free agents that made the Vikings roster. Keys was waived on December 31.
Arizona Cardinals On January 1, 2026, Keys was claimed off waivers by the Arizona Cardinals. He was placed on injured reserve on August 15. He was waived with an injury settlement on August 24.
Washington Commanders On September 16, 2026, the Washington Commanders signed Keys to their practice squad.
References
External links Washington Commanders profile Auburn Tigers profile Ole Miss Rebels profile