The New Orleans Saints added Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller with the 42nd overall pick. Miller’s a stout run defender and contains the athleticism to develop into an explosive pass rusher. The Saints drafting him this early is telling about their thoughts on the room, more specifically on Davon Godchaux.
The Saints traded for Godchaux last offseason from the New England Patriots for a 2026 seventh round pick. He had a quiet season, but that’s to be expected from a run stuffing defensive tackle. Now, he’s entering the final year of his deal and is an unrestricted free agent next year. Things can change, but it looks unlikely that the Saints re-sign him next offseason.
Another player that can impact is 2025 third-round pick Vernon Broughton, who missed the entire season with a hip injury. However, it’s too early to say anything definitive about that yet. But, it’s rational to assume that he will be a backup to Bryan Bresee and Miller to start the year.
Christen Miller’s upside makes him a long-term solution at defensive tackle
Godchaux was meant to be a bridge player until the Saints find their future at the position, which it seems they found. Miller’s upside as a pass-rusher and athleticism make him the long-term solution. Godchaux will likely take a backseat and serve as a mentor instead of being an every down contributor.
As mentioned above, Miller is an amazing run defender. He has a spectacular anchor and uses his superhuman strength to throw opposing lineman away. While rushing the quarterback, he’s shown a willingness to use pass rush moves but still needs to develop them. This may take some time, but it could pay dividends when he does.
Overall, Saints fans should be ecstatic about the addition of Christen Miller. Them drafting him in round two is evident about their belief in him, but likely means Davon Godchaux’s future with the Saints is uncertain.
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