Christen Miller 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Georgia has been a factory for NFL defensive linemen under Kirby Smart. Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, and Travon Walker were all standouts for the Bulldogs before turning pro. NFL teams (particularly the Eagles) have looked to Athens when finding future talent on defense. Christen Miller looks to be the next premier defensive lineman hailing from Georgia. He has been a steady presence on its defensive line for three seasons. Miller has emerged as one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. What makes him such a sought-after player, and how can he help an NFL defense?

2026 NFL Draft: Christen Miller Scouting Report

Measurables

Height- 6-foot-4

Weight- 310 pounds

Background

Miller was a four-star recruit coming out of Cedar Grove (Georgia) and the 20th-ranked defensive lineman in the Class of 2022. He stayed close to home and committed to Georgia. Miller redshirted the 2022 season, seeing limited action in four games. He saw an expanded role in the Bulldogs defense as a rotational defensive tackle in 2023. His first season of real action resulted in 14 tackles, four tackles for loss, and a sack. The flashes shown as a redshirt freshman were amplified in 2024. Miller made 10 starts and compiled 27 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He returned to Athens for one more season and maintained his production. In 14 games, Miller racked up 23 tackles, four tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. He posted an impressive 90.2 PFF grade against the run.

Strengths

Defending the run is Miller’s calling card, as he is a stout presence on the defensive line. He reads out run concepts well and maintains gap discipline. His frame is ideal for an NFL defensive tackle, measuring in at 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds. Miller pairs size with athleticism, displaying strong movement skills for a defensive tackle. He has experience playing at various spots along the defensive line, whether it be at nose tackle, the B-gap, or over the tackle. Miller has flashed potential as a pass rusher, and he has traits that can be developed.

Weaknesses

While Miller certainly has potential getting after the quarterback, he leaves a lot to be desired as a pass rusher. The times he did get into the offensive backfield, he struggled to finish off reps with sacks. Miller had just four sacks in his collegiate career, never having two or more in a single season. His tackling is also a question mark, posting a 19.2% PFF missed-tackle rate in 2025, after only having a 5.9% missed-tackle rate the year prior.

Overview

Miller has been a fairly consistent player throughout college. His proven effectiveness against the run gives him a high floor as a prospect. The athletic traits are all there with his combination of frame and athleticism. Miller has upside as a pass rusher, but it’s not a guarantee he will develop that aspect of his game. He isn’t the flashiest prospect, and interior defensive linemen don’t generate a ton of buzz, however having a player who can fill up run gaps is immensely valuable. Whoever drafts Miller is getting a great run defender at minimum, and may be able to develop him as a pass rusher. He currently projects as an early second-round pick, but has the chance to go late in the first.