“Memphis, let’s do this.” For Calvin Austin III, those four words were more than hype—they were a promise. Growing up under the watchful eyes of two relentless role models (one in uniform, one the rock at home), Austin knew the meaning of hard work. 

As a kid dreaming of suiting up for his hometown, he never imagined just how tough the climb would be. But walk-on status missed catches, and all the noise couldn’t shake him. He had Memphis grit and his family’s legacy behind him.

Who are Calvin Austin III’s parents?

“I have a ton of respect for him.” That’s Calvin Austin III speaking about his dad—Calvin Austin II—a longtime police officer in Memphis. If you know anything about Austin’s background, his admiration makes sense. 

Born and raised in Memphis, Austin III didn’t just snag his dad’s name. He grabbed his work ethic, grit, and that trademark Memphis pride.

Austin’s father’s spent 25 years serving as a Memphis police officer. More than a job, Austin II’s role was an example—an embodiment of service, discipline, and sacrifice. 

In fact, the Steelers WR credits his father as the very reason he pushes himself so much on and off-field. And it’s mutual. Austin II himself is quick to acknowledge the impact the 25-year-old’s mother, Mimi, has had. 

As he says, “I was blessed enough that my kids didn’t go to daycare… I would be there with them,” underscoring how his shifts would sync with Mimi’s to ensure they were always there for their kids.

Mimi Austin, a working mom, took on the role of family anchor. Together, Austin II and Mimi built a support system for their five children, a foundation that the Memphis product never takes for granted. 

He grew up surrounded by sisters—Cami Bea, Claudia-Ruthie, Naomi Pearl, and Bella Rose—learning values of loyalty and family strength.

Calvin Austin III’s commitment to Memphis started early. His childhood dream was to suit up for the hometown school—the University of Memphis—and he made it happen, although not without setbacks. As a walk-on, he faced two and a half years of barely any playtime. 

But by 2020, he broke out, earning a scholarship and becoming a standout for the Tigers. Transferring to another school? Not even a consideration. “I’m Memphis, and that’s what made me the person I am today, just having that toughness,” he said.

As for who he is today? Calvin Austin III owes it to two tragedies.

The Memphis star and his tale of two tragedies 

There are two tragedies in life, they say: not getting what you want—and getting it. The Steelers’ young WR learnt this the hard way in Memphis.

Walking on to his hometown’s team, Austin III was ready to prove he belonged. But then came his first Skill and Drill practice—a summer test that turned into his first “reality check.” 

“I was excited,” the wideout remembers, until he dropped his first pass. Then another. And one more. Suddenly, the field felt like enemy territory. “Come on, man!” teammates called out, frustration turning to dismissal. He remembers the sting as they moved on without him.

That tough debut was humbling. For Austin, it was a brutal reminder: college ball’s a whole different level. His high school talent didn’t guarantee success here. But he doubled down, improving his game.

Years later, those hard-earned lessons have paid off. Steelers’ Calvin Austin III’s resilience and Memphis pride has paid off.