Who is Matt Miller? ESPN Analyst controversy on NFL Running Backs sparks backlash

Matt Miller’s name will hardly be mentioned by anyone. Matt Miller is a famous personality. In recent years, the running back position in the NFL has faced a decline in value as teams prioritize younger and more affordable options over lucrative contracts for veteran backs. Amidst this shift, ESPN NFL Draft analyst Matt Miller has emerged with a controversial endorsement of this strategy, igniting a heated response from star running backs Josh Jacobs and Saquon Barkley when they failed to secure long-term deals.

Matt Miller

Who is Matt Miller?

Miller’s viewpoint suggests teams should draft running backs and immediately put them to use, only using the franchise tag “ONE TIME” if they prove to be exceptional. This proposition has garnered criticism from prominent NFL running backs, including Derrick Henry, Austin Ekeler, and Jonathan Taylor, who believe that the running back position should not be devalued. Miller’s viewpoint suggests teams should draft running backs and immediately put them to use, only using the franchise tag “ONE TIME” if they prove to be exceptional.

As an NFL Draft analyst, Matt Miller has established himself as an expert in football scouting and player evaluations. He joined ESPN in 2021 as an NFL Draft contributor and later became a year-round Draft analyst in 2022. In April 2023, Miller made his on-air NFL Draft debut during the 2023 NFL Draft in Kansas City, offering his insights during rounds 4-7 on ESPN’s broadcast. His extensive experience in the football industry includes serving as the President, Director of Scouting, and Lead Scout at New Era Scouting since June 2006.

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Additionally, Miller has a coaching background, having worked as the Varsity Football Coach at Liberal High School, handling various positions such as QB, RB, FB, CB, FS, and SS during the 2006 and 2007 seasons. Miller’s impact on sports media extends beyond his role as an analyst. During his time at Bleacher Report, he gained recognition as the most-read author in the platform’s history. He possesses expertise in national NFL content, video analysis, and NFL draft analysis. Miller has honed his skills in social media techniques and marketing copywriting, having worked as a Social Networking and Community Administrator from August 2006 to May 2011.

The controversy surrounding Matt Miller’s perspective on NFL running backs shows the ongoing struggle faced by these players in the league. Many running backs feel undervalued and disregarded as the NFL continues to evolve. This debate raises questions about the changing perceptions surrounding the running back position and its significant impact on team success.

Mark
Gurleen Kaur

I'm a science graduate from the Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria. My passion for writing has brought me to into the field of content.