For Matt Miller, it’s the most wonderful time of year. The ESPN analyst will have a prominent role in the network’s coverage of the NFL Draft, taking place April 24-26, and he’ll be at Lambeau Field sharing his insights and predictions on the prospects. He joined ESPN in 2021 and made his on-air draft debut during Day 3 of the 2023 event. Prior to that, Miller spent over a decade at Bleacher Report.
We recently caught up with Miller, who signed a contract extension with ESPN last month, to discuss his career and the draft. Note: This interview has been edited and condensed for length and clarity.
Awful Announcing: How did you first get interested in the draft?
“It’s funny. I don’t remember when it started because I was so young. I’ve asked my older brothers and parents, but they all say, ‘It just always has been your thing.’ I was one of those kids buying draft magazines, sending off for Mel Kiper’s book, and scouring the Sporting News to follow all the rumors. Even before the Internet, I was addicted to player movement and the draft.”
What is it like for you to do the draft now?
“You’re sitting there for about eight hours, which is exhausting yet incredibly exhilarating. This will be my third year on Day 3, and it’s tough to come down from that high afterward. Typically, restroom breaks and grabbing something to eat become priorities, then I try to rest a little before jumping into busy draft recaps that Sunday. It’s an experience unlike anything else.”
You’re juggling so much information. Have you ever lost your train of thought?
“During my first draft, I mistakenly said the Raiders had picked a player when it was actually the Jaguars. I realized it instantly, but I was already focused on what was next. It taught me the importance of living in that moment—giving acknowledgment to players and their families because they’re watching.”
Who is the safest pick in this draft?
“Ashton Jeanty is the safest. He’s versatile and fluid enough to excel in any offensive scheme. He’s proven explosive, both as a receiver and runner, particularly showcasing excellent vision and contact balance.”
Who is the riskiest pick?
“Cam Ward is likely to go first overall, but I don’t see him rated as the best player by anyone. I personally have him at No. 14. While some may rate him higher, he’s certainly not the consensus top player. The expectations that come with being the first overall pick, especially a quarterback, are immense, and the track record hasn’t been great lately.”
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Will Travis Hunter play more as a cornerback or wide receiver?
“It will depend on the drafting team. I’d suggest he consider the financial benefits of playing wide receiver, especially when looking at the lucrative contracts of players like Ja’Marr Chase. With his talent, he could excel in either role, but given his frame, it might be better to avoid contact as a receiver.”
What’s the most correct you’ve been about a draft pick?
“Although I didn’t have the right grade on Patrick Mahomes, my scouting report on him was accurate. I noted that if he got some time, he would be dangerous. After the draft, I praised how he would sit behind Alex Smith, suggesting he had the potential to be the best quarterback in the NFL given the right circumstances.”
What’s the most wrong you’ve been about a draft pick?
“Trent Richardson, without a doubt. I believed he would be the next Jim Brown, the best running back in the league. His rookie season was promising, but after the trade to the Colts, he never regained the talent he displayed at Alabama.”
Here are Mel Kiper Jr. and Jon Gruden breaking down the selection of Trent Richardson in the 2012 NFL Draft: pic.twitter.com/wxlGUoKwbi
— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) April 12, 2021
What kind of influence has Mel Kiper Jr. had on your career?
“On my first day at ESPN, Mel called me for an hour-long conversation to welcome me. We shared our backgrounds, and despite not playing college football, I was passionate about football and the draft. My position at the draft desk is due to Mel’s support and recommendation to ESPN’s Seth Markman. I’m forever indebted to him for that, and my respect for him continues to grow as I work alongside him.”
When do you go to Green Bay?
“I’ll head up there Tuesday morning. Since I’ve never been, I’m excited to see Lambeau Field. As a huge football fan from a small town, it’ll be thrilling to experience such an iconic place firsthand.”
