Braxton Miller, Ohio St (6’1 | 201 | 4.46) – The opposite of Boyd in that he’s a raw and unpolished wide receiver, but is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Miller might have the best elusiveness of any receiver in this year’s draft class, he forced 8 missed tackles after the catch last year on just 28 catches.
He’s only played one season as a receiver, so Miller is understandably raw but showed a elite upside at the position. Miller backed up his potential during Senior Bowl practices where he was all but uncoverable by some of the top DBs in the draft.
He has the length, speed, and natural hands to be a potential #1 receiver at the next level. It may take a few seasons to get there, but as a rookie Miller could make an impact catching screens and other short passes and then making things happen after the catch. Miller is explosive enough to contribute as a kick or punt returner as well. Similar to Tavon Austin on the Rams, the more often a team finds a way to get the ball in Miller’s hands… The more times he’s going to find the end zone.
I can’t see the Bears using a 2nd round pick on a receiver with 28 career catches, but I think the 3rd round is a possibility. The Bears admittedly need play-makers on offense, and that is what Miller brings to the table. Adding Miller in the slot with Jeffery and White outside could give the Bears one of the most explosive receiving groups in the league. He could also provide value as a return specialist and gives OC Dowell Loggains a variety of trick play options with Miller’s skills as a runner and thrower.
Next: Pharoh Cooper