The New Orleans Saints have selected Christen Miller with the 42nd pick of the NFL Draft. Defensive line has been a need for the Saints all offseason. While edge rusher was viewed as a bigger need by most, the team lacked an option with upside in the interior of the defensive line. Bryan Bresee and Nathan Shepherd are the only current options on the roster. The Saints interviewed Miller early in the pre draft process.
Miller was at Georgia for four years, where he witnessed the team win a national championship in 2022 during his redshirt season. He only has three years of experience as a contributor but has shown consistency in the SEC. He has 64 combined tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks in those three seasons in the Georgia rotation.
Miller is a Good Value In the Second Round
GettyChristen Miller received a second round grade from draft analysts.
Looking at how draft analysts projected Miller, the 42nd pick of the NFL Draft matches with the second round marker analysts gave him. PFF ranked him as the 37th prospect in the NFL Draft. He received a 90.2 run defense grade and a 70 pass rush grade. They noted he is a well rounded and consistent prospect.
PFF said, “Miller has a strong frame with good length and rare twitch for an interior defender. His quick first step and leverage make him a reliable run defender, and his processing ability adds to his projection, though he must continue to develop his anchor.”
Dane Brugler of the Athletic graded him as a second round prospect and the third best defensive tackle in the draft.
Here’s his main takeaway: “Miller can be up and down with his anchor and rush consistency, but he is rock solid as a run defender who should excel on early downs. His role will shift depending on scheme, though he projects best as a one-gapping nose in a four-man front.”
Christen Miller Athletic Profile
GettyWhile Christen Miller did not workout at the combine, his overall build and tape indicates a very positive athletic profile.
Christen Miller may not have worked out at the NFL Combine, but he has an excellent build for a defensive tackle. He measures a little above 6’3” and between 321 and 328 pounds. He has 33” arms and 10” inch. Despite not working out at either the combine and his pro day, NFL Next Gen Stats gives him a total score of 73 in athleticism, which is a solid score. Bruglar also notes that he is an impressive athlete for his size.
With this selection, the Saints now project to have Miller as an immediate starter on the defensive line given their current starting situation. The Saints defense is starting to come into shape especially given their rumors targeting Kayvon Thibodeaux to take the edge.
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