Harlan Miller NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Cardinals Rookie

POSITIVES

The top small-school cornerback in the 2016 draft class, Harlan Miller impressed on tape against Southland Conference competition but really made a name for himself during Senior Bowl week. A feisty, physical cornerback with great play strength and a mean streak in press coverage, Miller has the goods to carve out a long pro career.

Miller’s aggressive style of play jumps off the screen. He’s in the face of wide receivers at the line of scrimmage and dares the offense to take a shot his way. He’s able to slip underneath receivers to make a play on the ball and has excellent timing on breaking routes. A tall, long player, Miller uses that size to his advantage both in press situations and on jump balls.

In run support, Miller brings a lot to the table. He attacks the ball-carrier and will get into the backfield to spill outside runs. If lined up in the slot, Miller has the closing speed and instincts to be a valuable blitzer.

NEGATIVES

Average speed on tape—and in testing—will bring scouts back to the film to see if Miller’s dominance in college was based on technique or a poor level of competition. Miller has not seen top-tier competition in the last four seasons and was able to get away with less-than-ideal long speed.

An aggressive cornerback at his level, Miller must learn patience in coverage. His timing when given the chance to jump a route can be early, and while that might play on Saturdays, it’s a move that will cost him yards in the NFL. Miller got caught flat-footed during Senior Bowl practices against play action and must learn to stay fluid and stay balanced in his backpedal.

A small player with a maxed-out frame, Miller’s career may be as a nickel cornerback. Due to average testing times and a body that needs more strength, Miller will likely at least start his career as a sub-package player before he’s able to acclimate to the NFL and earn reps on the edge.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 229 lbs.

40 Time: 4.59s

3-Cone: 7.00s

Short Shuttle: 4.59s

PRO COMPARISON: Kevin Johnson, Houston Texans
FINAL GRADE: 6.60/9.00 (Round 2—Future Starter)