ESPN's Katherine Terrell divided the New Orleans Saints 2026 draft class into four different categories: immediate starters, regular contributors, backups, and projects. Second round defensive tackle Christen Miller was the only member from the Saints draft class to earn a “regular contributor” designation, highlighting the expectation that he will play a meaningful role on the defensive line early in his career.
Selected with the 42nd overall pick out of Georgia, Miller brings size, power and versatility to the Saints defensive front. His ability to contribute against both the run and pass should allow him to carve out a significant role in the rotation as a rookie. If nothing else, Miller will be a run defender. That's his specialty coming out of college, and the Saints need that badly. His underrated pass rush ability gives him a floor as a two-down player and ceiling as a three-down defender.
While Miller may not be expected to step into a starting role immediately, his skill set and upside should allow him to make an impact early as he develops within the Saints defensive system. That early experience could prove valuable as he gradually pushes for a larger role in the rotation.
Christen Miller's greatest impact could come in 2027
Miller’s path to a larger role could be helped by the contract situation of veteran defensive tackle Davon Godchaux. The Saints acquired Godchaux in 2025. He is currently under contract through the 2026 season and is set to become a free agent in 2027.
As a result, this season could serve a transition year for Miller as he gains valuable experience behind an established veteran. If his development stays on track, Miller could grow into a potential starter and long-term piece of the defensive line beginning in 2027.
For now, it’s projected that the Saints will allow Miller to develop within the rotation while preparing him for a larger role down the road. If he takes advantages of his opportunities, he could emerge as one of the key building blocks of New Orleans defensive front for years to come.
Add us as a preferred source on Google