2018 NFL Draft: Kolton Miller could be surprise first round pick
Kolton Miller has quietly seen his stock rise in the months leading up to the 2018 NFL Draft. Could the UCLA offensive tackle become a first round pick?
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Early on in the season Kolton Miller wasn’t among the most prominent tackles in the 2018 NFL Draft class. After a full season protecting the blindside of future first round pick Josh Rosen, Miller’s status as an elite offensive lineman has continued to solidify.
Miller backed up his rise on the draft boards with a strong performance at the NFL Combine where he measured out well. He stands 6-foot-9, weighs 310 pounds with 34-1/8 inch arms and 10-3/4 inch hands. In short, he’s a huge man with more than enough size to start on the offensive line in the NFL.
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Strengths
There’s more to Miller than size alone. For a man of his size, Miller is extremely quick. He scored in the top three at his position in the 20-yard dash and the 3-cone at the combine. That backs up what he’s put on film throughout his career.
Not only is he fast of foot, Miller quickly diagnoses pass rushes and blitz schemes, reorienting his body so that he can deliver the most effective block possible. He’s not afraid to meet defenders at the second level and is capable of sealing an edge to open up space down field for his tailback. After spending his final collegiate season at left tackle, he’ll be capable to play on either side of the line.
Weaknesses
Miller’s height has caused problems against powerful rushers. He plays with a high pad level too often, which is further amplified by his height. If he can’t correct this technical aspect of his game he might need to move to the inside.
As quick as he is with his feet and his mind, Miller is not nimble. He has stiff hips and does not get his body low enough to meet oncoming rushers. While he might be more prepared to play out of the gate than other offensive lineman in this draft class, the ceiling on his game could be limited.
Next: Latest first round NFL Mock Draft post Combine
Draft expectations
Miller put his name in the running for a first round selection by playing extremely consistent football last fall. There aren’t any frills or drama with him; he’s exactly what he looks like. While some team could reach on him, it’s more likely that he hears his name called early on the second day.