The enthusiasm permeating out of the draft community when the Chicago Bears traded up to get Anthony Miller was palpable. Many viewed him as the best receiver in the entire class. A route running wizard with quickness, agility and a fighter’s mentality to where every play was treated like it was the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl. He embodies everything the Bears covet in their players.
Adding to the excitement were some of the pro comparisons he was drawing. Several experts saw so many similarities to Pittsburgh Steelers superstar Antonio Brown from the size and talent makeup. Miller himself stated he models his game after former Carolina Panthers great Steve Smith. Those are two phenomenal names to be attached to.
Still, it’s a bit of a high bar to reach for the young receiver. Luckily ESPN dropped a new name into the pot for stirring. One that can be considered a more measured comparison, but in truth is still something to get excited over.
Anthony Miller plays a lot like Seahawks star Doug Baldwin
Prominent tape expert Matt Bowen broke down which quarterbacks would be safe or risky bets as fantasy league options in 2018. Mitch Trubisky was considered the biggest wild card in his estimation. While breaking down his new receiving corps, Bowen unloaded a fascinating name that league experts see Miller’s likeness.
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“No. 1 wide receiver Allen Robinson is a route technician with the 6-foot-3 frame to go up and get it. This is a wide receiver who led the NFL with 18 red zone touchdowns from 2015 to ’16. Move tight end (or slot tight end) Trey Burton caught five touchdowns last season for the Eagles and the skill set/fit is there for the free-agent signing to create matchups in the Chicago route tree. Taylor Gabriel? Straight speed on the outside. And rookie Anthony Miller has drawn some comps to Seahawks stud Doug Baldwin.”
Baldwin reflects Miller not just on the field, but in upbringing as well. He had to fight his way up the ladder to get recognition. He went undrafted in 2011 and didn’t become a starter until his third year. Everybody said the same things: he’s quick and has some speed but he’s so small (5’10). Sound familiar?
Well, now Baldwin is one of the best receivers in the NFL. He’s averaged over 1,000 yards each of the past three seasons, scored 29 touchdowns and made the Pro Bowl twice. His route running prowess and penchant for big catches reflect all the same traits that Miller showcased during his run at Memphis.
If that’s who indeed the Bears have secured, then their offense is in even better shape than originally thought.
