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Harlan Miller
College: Southeastern Louisiana
Position: Cornerback
Height/Weight: 6-0/182
College Stats: 122 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 33 passes defensed, 11 interceptions, 26 punt returns (11.3 yards per return)
The ultimate underdog coming from Southeastern Louisiana, Harlan Miller has steadily improved each season with the Lions. He stepped into action as a reserve during his freshman season and then saw his stock rise during a breakout sophomore season. He earned All-Southland Conference honors with four interceptions during the 2015 season.
Miller had a solid 2014 year with three interceptions, but last fall was a whole new level of play for Miller with a career-high 49 tackles, six tackles for loss, 14 passes defensed, four interceptions, and 15 punt returns for a 10.5 yards per return average. The Kentwood, Louisiana native was named to the First Team All-Louisiana squad, STATS and Associated Press FCS Second Team All-America Squads, and First Team All-Southland as a senior. He was even a finalist for the FCS National Defensive Player of the Year award.
Pros:
Miller is 6-0 with a nice wingspan, giving him the ability to cover more ground from a single spot. He is a player best suited for a bump and run type of coverage and loves to be physical at the line of scrimmage. Despite his wiry frame, Miller is not afraid or unwilling to get involved versus the run. He is a very solid tackler that usually gets his man to the ground without help.
Because he is from a small school, Miller has that much needed chip on his shoulder to prove his worth on every single play. He is a very hard worker that will find his way on the field in some capacity. Miller also has return capabilities after returning 15 punts as a senior.
Cons:
Scouts are afraid that Miller is too thin framed to compete on a regular basis versus physical receivers. He does not seem to have much room to add bulk without losing some of his quickness.
While he is physical, he can get caught grabbing at the line of scrimmage versus quality receivers. His combine was a bit of a disappointment and his lack of top end speed is a bit of a concern. He played well in Senior Bowl practices, but coming from a small school will hurt his draft stock.
Where will Miller get drafted?
Miller's best fit is with a team that could use a cornerback in limited scenarios early one while also gaining a special teams ace. A team that immediately comes to mind is out west with the Cardinals. They could use some help in the secondary and a player that can one day step into a starting role.
My prediction is for Miller to be selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the #128 pick of the fourth round.