Dallas Cowboys Draft Profile: Introducing Ventrell Miller, LB
By Cassidy Cook
The Dallas Cowboys have a reoccurring theme for the 2023 offseason, DEPTH! Linebacker might be a 1b when it comes to need and depth only behind cornerback when it comes to the current roster.
Micah Parsons may have been drafted as a linebacker but the Dallas Cowboys have fully committed to trying to use him as an edge. Late in the season Micah had to be moved back to linebacker at times due to injury and poor play by Anthony Barr. Also, fan favorite, Leighton Vander Esch is set to be a free agent who isn’t guaranteed to be back on this roster in 2023.
Ventrell Miller would be a plug-and-play at the Will position in Dan Quinn’s 4-3 defense for the Dallas Cowboys.
Miller is a compact built linebacker who excels against the run and is a ferocious tackler with a high motor who plays through the whistle.
Ventrell is listed as a Mike linebacker but lacks the size and arm length desired at the position. Hence, it would be wise to move him to the Will position where he can showcase his elite and powerful tackling. He also will need to build his strength as he enters the pros while working on and honing his pass coverage skills.
On a positive note, Ventrell Miller does a superb job in reading the offense and identifying plays. His physicality pops off the screen as he embraces the physicality desired at the position. When it comes to Dan Quinn’s defense, Miller is also able to play zone while dropping into coverage. He needs some work but will get the job done against short throws around the line of scrimmage.
Overall, Miller is a physical and willing tackler who will meet opposing running back and defenders in the hole while bringing a much needed two or three down player to add depth to this defense.
Projected Draft Spot: Ranked LB16 by NFL Draft Buzz and outside the top 20 for TDN, Ventrell Miller is projected to go anywhere from late round 5 or in the 6th. He could move up to a late 4th to 5th depending on the combine and how he interviews.