Why the Saints selected DT Christen Miller

Day 2 is underway, and at pick 42, the New Orleans Saints had some great options, and they ended up adressing the trenches. In the second round of the draft, the Saints selected DT Christen Miller out of Georgia. Looking at the roster, Miller is going to fit in really well.

DT was always a need that received insufficient attention in previous years, and it was an issue throughout last season. In Brandon Staley’s scheme, he likes around three DTs playing on the defensive line. Two being the DEs (but at times a larger pass-rusher such as Carl Granderson can move there), and a nose tackle to play in the middle and take up space.

The DEs are obviously important, but the nose tackle may be the position that could hurt the Saints’ defensive line the most if it is not good enough. Last season, Davon Godchaux was not bad, but the play could have been better, and with him entering his final year (and getting closer to retirement), the Saints’ decision to upgrade here made sense. Miller will fit right into that nose tackle role on Staley’s defense.

Now, as a player, let’s look at what Miller brings to the Saints. He is a very strong player, one of the best in the draft class against the run. He will be a major upgrade for the Saints in that area, but what makes him even more of an impressive player is his pass rush upside.