Georgia made a late push for Braylon Miller, and it didn’t take long for Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs to change his college plans. The versatile athlete from Covington (Ga.) Newton committed to Liberty on June 1, but Georgia entered his recruitment in a big way earlier this month. Smart personally offered Miller during a visit to Athens, and the Bulldogs quickly became a serious threat to his commitment.
After multiple trips to Georgia, including an official visit, Miller has made his decision. He’s flipping from Liberty to Georgia.
The Bulldogs recruited Miller as a defensive back, projecting him at nickel and safety. That versatility has been a major part of his value throughout his high school career, where he has contributed on both sides of the ball and on special teams.
Georgia’s interest accelerated after the Bulldogs got a closer look at Miller early in the season. The offer from Smart changed the direction of his recruitment, and the staff made sure Miller understood how highly it valued him.
He is excited to be part of Smart’s program.
“I really like their style of play,” Miller told Rivals. “Their intensity is there and they like to win, and I love to win. Those things stand out most about Georgia.”
Miller has shown the ability to line up at multiple positions for Newton, making plays as a defensive back, offensive weapon and special teams contributor. Georgia’s vision for Miller was clear from the beginning. The Bulldogs see him as a nickel and safety, where his athleticism, physicality and versatility can translate to their defensive system.
Defensive assistant coach Andrew Thacker played a significant role in Georgia’s pursuit.
“The coach who’s been hitting me up the most is Thacker. He has been telling me that I will fit perfectly in their program and that they really wanted me.”
That adaptability fits what Georgia values in its secondary. He loves Georgia’s style of play.
“They’re physical, they practice with intensity, and they’re a winning program. Those are big things for me.”
Those qualities became even more apparent as Miller spent time around the team and coaching staff.
Georgia has consistently produced NFL talent in its secondary, and Miller believes the opportunity to learn from Smart and his staff can help him reach his potential. Smart’s reputation for developing defensive backs also factored into the decision.
“Something that stands out about Kirby is that he’s a good coach, especially for the DBs,” Miller said. “So I can see myself getting developed by him for sure.”