Julian Miller, DE

03/19/2012 - With the NFL draft almost one month away, the home stretch of preparation has arrived for the senior members of the West Virginia football team with aspirations of playing at the next level. On Friday morning, NFL scouts, including head coaches Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Lovie Smith of the Chicago Bears, flooded the Caperton Indoor facility to get a closer look at the Mountaineer prospects. The preparation process has been long and difficult for the players. "The past couple months have been the longest months of my life," said former WVU linebacker Najee Goode. "Getting ready for it and all the anticipation has been long and dreary. But it's been fun at the same time so I have no complaints." It also makes it difficult not knowing what drills to expect. "You never know what you're going to get," said defensive lineman Julian Miller. "Especially like today, I didn't train or practice for any of those drills we did. But I just wanted to go out and compete." Despite the confusion and tiring development, all the seniors admitted the experience was an enjoyable one. "It's a good way to compete with the seniors and the guys I've been playing with for the last couple years," Miller said. "It's just really fun to be out here with these guys for one last time. To be able to come out here and compete, do what I did, and show the scouts what I'm capable of, I feel really good." - Nick Arthur, The Daily Athenaeum

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The typical dependable, lunch-pail product produced by the Mountaineers for 20 years, Miller isn't elite in any one category, but his ability to provide pass rush while holding the point as a run defender gives him a chance as a swing end at the next level.

Positives: Veteran defender who knows his role. Isn't fooled by misdirection. Sacks and pressures are product of hustle. Gives effort on every play. Holds the point with length and strong upper body. Faces double-team and holds the line. Stays alive against the run and mobile quarterbacks, shedding to either side to chase. Adequate change-of- direction agility and straight-line speed to contain. Negatives: Not explosive as a pass rusher or run defender. Lacks elite speed and flexibility to turn the corner and is late off the snap. Hands aren't strong or active enough to disengage consistently. Gets good push, but will not bull rush NFL tackles. Plays tall, lacks athleticism to break down against elusive ballcarriers.