Chicago Bears Draft: Realistic options at edge rusher

Round 3 Favorite: Christian Miller, Alabama

It is very rare you’re talking about a kid coming out of college with little starting experience, yet could potentially be selected in the third or fourth rounds of the draft. But, that’s exactly what you’re looking at in Christian Miller. He was a consistent presence within the Tide defense over the last few years, but never a true every-down starter.

So, how is he a potential third-round pick?

First of all, I trust Alabama more than just about any other program in the nation. Nick Saban’s defense is consistently one of the best in the nation, so I have no questions for the way he handles his group. Miller was a pass rusher and pass rusher only. He was more of a defensive specialist, if you will. Yet, even though he wasn’t a full-time starter, Miller posted 11.0 tackles for loss and 8.0 sacks in 2018.

As an impressive athlete, the Bears would be getting a kid who needs to add a bit more bulk to his frame. But, folks said the exact same thing about Leonard Floyd coming out of Georgia, so I’ll let that critique slide. Clearly, Floyd is finally breaking out and his athleticism is one of his main advantages on the field.

Miller’s vertical jump was a ridiculous 38.5 inches, just for the record. He has solid speed and above-average bend. Give me an athlete on this defense who is trained to go after quarterbacks, and I’ll let Chuck Pagano and company take his development from there. Miller is a wildcard, but he’s worth the pick.