Ohio State won't have a player like Braxton Miller ever again.
A native Ohioan that starred for two-plus seasons at quarterback, won a pair of Silver Footballs but then became a statistical afterthought in Ohio State's offense by his senior year because a pair of shoulder surgeries makes for a story that will be nearly impossible to replicate.
And now as we write words reflective of his new position — 'wide receiver Braxton Miller' — taking a stab at where he could end up in the 2016 NFL Draft is complicated. While Miller's pure athleticism and speed makes him a world class athlete, the fact is he is not even a year removed from announcing to the world he planned to switch positions.
The NFL is a passing league and a player of Miller's size (6-foot-1, 201 pounds) looks best suited in the slot, though he never quite fit there at Ohio State in 2015. He can get by defenders in one-on-one situations, but needs to show that explosiveness with more concise route running. He wowed at the Senior Bowl, but took too long to get by a defender before turning for the football. By that time, the quarterback was either sacked or had gone elsewhere.
Miller's injury history also works against him, but if he gets with a franchise that can best weaponize his talent, he could be a dangerous player at the next level. It only takes one team to make that happen.
Where does he best fit at the next level? Here are five potential franchises.
Cincinnati Bengals
Where They're Picking: First Round (24th overall), Second Round (55th overall), Third Round (87th overall), Fourth Round (122nd overall)
Breakdown: The Bengals lost Marvin Jones and Mohamed Sanu in free agency, so suddenly their biggest need is at wide receiver. Miller ranks behind a host of other players in this year's draft class for the simple fact they have been playing the position forever. Still, the Bengals could jump at Miller in the third round as a developmental player they can get in space alongside other skill guys like A.J. Green, Giovani Bernard, Jeremy Hill and recently signed Brandon LaFell. The Bengals seemed on the cusp of getting that ever elusive playoff victory for coach Marvin Lewis last season, but Andy Dalton's thumb injury came at an inopportune time. Adding Miller as a new toy for Dalton and the offense after the exits or Jones and Sanu makes sense.
Houston Texans
Where They're Picking: First Round (22nd overall), Second Round (55th overall), Third Round (85th overall), Fourth Round (119th overall)
Breakdown: Houston likes is receiving corps, led by former Clemson star DeAndre Hopkins, but needs more team speed. Jaelen Strong could eventually turn into a serviceable No. 2 wideout, but tabbing Miller and his quickness will give the Texans a much-needed burner in the slot. Houston and coach Bill O'Brien will look for a tight end and help with their offensive line in the draft, but should add another weapon for new quarterback Brock Osweiler. Look no further than Miller.
Tennessee Titans
Where They're Picking: First Round (15th overall), Second Round (33rd overall, 43rd overall, 45th overall), Third Round (64th overall, 76th overall)
Breakdown: The Titans traded their No. 1 to Los Angeles and scooped up a bunch of picks in the process. Since they have their franchise quarterback in place in Marcus Mariota, the next step is getting him some help on the offense. Tennessee can do that with six picks in the first three rounds. The team picked up wide receiver Rishard Matthews this offseason, but the rest of the unit has been largely unproductive. Mariota is used to a fast-paced offense and getting the ball out of his hands quickly, since that is what he did at Oregon under Chip Kelly. Miller's explosion helps him and do well in space, so Tennessee could utilize him on quick screens and the underneath throws to move the chains.
Kansas City Chiefs
Where They're Picking: First Round (28th overall), Second Round (59th overall), Fourth Round (126th overall)
Breakdown: Frankly, it's remarkable Kansas City got to and won a playoff game last season considering their wide receiver situation and the absence of injured star running back Jamaal Charles. Jeremy Maclin is a proven guy at the No. 1 spot on the outside, but quarterback Alex Smith doesn't have a reliable No. 2. Andy Reid served up a shoutout win over the hapless Houston Texans in the wild card round, but then fell a score short at New England the following week, a team known for taking away its oppositions best two receiving options. Miller fits with the Chiefs because he is another shifty guy that can make plays after the catch. Smith is best when he gets the ball out of his hands quickly, so finding Miller in space and watching him work feels right.
New Orleans Saints
Where They're Picking: First Round (12th overall), Second Round (47th overall), Third Round (78th overall), Fourth Round (112th overall)
Breakdown: New Orleans released 10-year veteran Marques Colston in February, so they'll look to add a receiver in this year's draft. Quarterback Drew Brees is an ideal fit for Sean Payton's pass-happy offense, but needs a solid contingent of playmakers to make it work. New Orleans seems to believe 6-foot-6 Brandon Coleman will step in for Colston as their "big slot" wide receiver, but Miller fits in the mold of a Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead with his size and speed. Brees can never have enough options in the passing game, so the Saints could add Miller in hopes he can help them return to the playoffs after a two-year hiatus.
Honorable Mention: Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Rams, Pittsburgh Steelers, New England Patriots
