Most of the news surrounding the New York Jets draft has been their interest in quarterbacks. While the Jets are continuing to casually look at the top quarterback prospects, they are also taking the time to consider other possible areas of need, both short-term and long-term. As rumors swirl that cornerback Darrelle Revis will be traded on draft day to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Jets are looking at future cornerback prospects, which could be a sign they are ready to move on from Revis. Team officials will pay a visit to Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner, one of the best overall players in this year's draft.
The Jets currently select No. 9 overall. This early pick could easily put them in place to get Milliner before anyone else. It is expected that at least two quarterbacks and two offensive linemen will be taken with the first few selections, leaving the Jets to grab Milliner.
Milliner has met with a handful of teams since his stellar performance at the recent NFL combine. Milliner cemented himself as a top-10 pick after he ran a 4.31 in the 40-yard dash. A standout defensive player for Alabama, he is highly regarded for his general athleticism and ability to find the ball in the air. The Detroit Lions have the fifth overall pick and they have also have a big interest in Milliner. If Milliner is off the board by the time the Jets draft, they do have players like Antonio Cromartie that can headline the cornerback position.
The Jets interest in Milliner begs the question of whether or not the team is preparing for a life without Revis. The cornerback has been the subject of trade rumors since the offseason began and it is reported that the Jets are negotiating a draft day deal. Tampa Bay has been the main suitor for the Revis, but have seemed hesitant to give in to the Jets' demands. New York wants Tampa's first-round draft pick, something the Bucs are not willing to part with.
If the Jets are able to get rid of Revis in time, Milliner would be an excellent replacement. The two players possess the same skillset and Milliner would be the future of that position for a long time to come. Everything for the Jets will begin to unfold on draft day and it remains to be seen how ready they are to part with Revis.