Georgia defensive lineman Christen Miller entered the college football transfer portal just days after hinting at the importance of NIL. He changed his mind less than 18 hours later.
The timing cannot be a coincidence!
Miller, a four-star defensive line prospect in the recruiting Class of 2022, was ranked inside of the Top 150 overall and one of the Top 20 players at his position. He committed to the Bulldogs over 29 other offers. Miami, Ohio State, Oregon and USC were most prominently in the mix alongside Alabama, Arkansas, Florida and Florida A&M.
His freshman season ultimately led to a redshirt. His sophomore season saw him make 14 tackles and one sack during 13 appearances as a reserve player.
Christen Miller, a rising redshirt sophomore, announced his intentions to enter the transfer portal at approximately 7:00 p.m. ET on Wednesday night. He even thanked UGA ‘for everything’ with a post on X.
It was then announced at approximately 9:30 a.m. ET on Thursday morning that he is no longer going to leave Georgia.
Name, Image and Likeness compensation might have played a major role in the 6-foot-4, 305-pound lineman’s decision to stay. All of the signs are there!
Miller posted a music video to Instagram earlier this week.
One particular line stood out.
I can’t say no names, that’s how you get killed. I can’t sleep at night, thinking bout that NIL.
— Christen Miller
Hmmm…………..
This is entirely speculation at this point. However, it certainly seems like it is very easy to connect the dots here.
If Miller can’t sleep at night because he is thinking about money, one could assume that money had a role in his initial decision to enter the transfer portal. Defensive linemen are a hot commodity right now. Nearly every team in the country is in need of depth at the position. Elite talent at the position is sparse.
Defensive lineman are getting paid extremely well right now as a result of limited supply and high demand.
Miller may have entered the portal with NIL on his mind. Georgia may have matched the offer he seeks.