2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Von Miller

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Strengths:
  • Outstanding speed; eliminates space in a hurry
  • Elite first step
  • Very intelligent; knows how to set up an OT
  • Technically sound with footwork
  • Plethora of rush moves
  • Great motor and gives nice second effort
  • Extremely productive junior year
  • Terrific range
  • Fluid athlete and can cover a lot of ground
  • Smooth hips in coverage
  • Can turn and run with running backs/tight ends
  • Stays low and runs with the arc
  • Instinctive with natural feel for the game
  • Tenacious pass rusher
  • Excellent counter moves
  • Smooth transition to 3-4 scheme in NFL
  • Leader with good work ethic
  • Playmaker
  • Still has upside



    Weaknesses:
  • Very small frame
  • Gets overwhelmed at point of attack
  • Weak versus the run
  • Hand use could improve
  • Needs to add strength
  • Strictly a 3-4 outside linebacker

    Summary: Von Miller doesn't have the size you look for, but he gets the most out of his abilities and has an extremely high level of athleticism. With the 3-4 scheme in the NFL now, you don't need to be 6-4, 255 pounds to play outside linebacker. All you need is a great first step and elite speed, and Miller brings both to the table. I have a first-round grade on Miller going into the season and I expect him to have a big senior year and end up being a first-round pick.

    Player Comparison: Elvis Dumervil. Dumervil and Miller are both undersized, but they are tremendously athletic and wreak havoc on quarterbacks at the rush linebacker position.





    RELATED LINKS:


    2011 NFL Mock Draft: Matt's | Walt's


    2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports