Name: Jason Miller
School: Bethel University (MN)
Position: OG
Height: 6-3
Weight: 305
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
We set the goal to win a conference championship and of course a national championship. We unfortunately did not win the conference championship after losing to St. Johns in that game 28-10 but did beat them earlier in the season when they were national ranked #2. We ended up making the playoffs and reaching the elite 8 before losing to the former national champions (Mary-Hardin Baylor) in a really close and exhilarating game. On our team, we try not to emphasize individual accolades as much but one I personally held was to make first team all-conference which ended up happening. Another thing that was a major accomplishment was that across all divisions of college football, our offensive line was one of the nations leaders in fewest sacks allowed which is a testament to our style of play and intelligence.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches would emphasize how I lead by example and am extremely hardworking as well as I love learning. 2 years ago I was a defensive tackle at my school before being moved to right guard. I have only been at the position for 2 years and ended up being all-conference. My coaches were very proud of me and told me that I am the embodiment of what hard work looks like. It also goes to show how much I love learning about the game. My teammates would describe me as loving off the field and vicious on the field. I love to hit hard and play extremely physical as well as have a few conversations with the other team after the whistle.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film I specifically look at the number of steps I take depending on the play as well as hand placement. These are key aspects of any line play on both sides of the ball. When scouting other teams, I usually look at the type of pressures they send or how often pressure is sent. I also look at what type of moves the defensive lineman I am going against uses and how I can counter those moves. I also look at stunts they run which helps me in game because once I sense the defensive lineman move a certain way I can expect what is coming.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What separates me from other pro prospects at my position is that I am extremely physical as well as a really intelligent player. I have played both sides of the ball in college which has helped me gain so much experience on playing either position and it also shows that I am a quick learner and am super adaptable. Also being a quick learner and the way I watch film, I am prepared well come game time which lets me play free and play my type of football.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
I currently train with some former NFL players to help increase my knowledge as well as practicing patience when shooting my hands on any pass sets. I will continue getting stronger and faster as well.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
On the field I am a versatile player as previously stated, I have played both sides of the ball in college. I bring great intelligence and game knowledge as well as size, strength, quickness, and explosiveness as well as great physicality. Off the field I try to be a great servant leader as I have previously served at several non-profit organizations throughout the Minneapolis- St. Paul metro area. Wherever I land, I will be a major leader in the community and give back. I am also a HUGE believer in team chemistry and this is what made our position group so great at Bethel, we all organized a team to get to know the young guys and each other. We also would hold an offensive line chapel which was a 30-minute time window one day a week where one guy would speak in front of our group about what was on their heart. This was a great way to be vulnerable to other teammates which made us feel more like a family.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I am a diamond in the rough. I have great speed, size, strength, and punch. I also have a really high football IQ and intelligence. I will never be outworked by anybody on that football field. As previously mentioned I put countless hours into my gametime preparation and improving my game. I am also an extremely versatile player, playing both sides of the ball in college. Off the field, I am a leader in team bonding and chemistry and wherever I end up, will give a great amount of love and support to the community.