The Cleveland Browns have long been connected to Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner when it comes to the draft, but some news reports say that the team is growing weary of taking Milliner, as his injured shoulder and past surgeries could be a future concern.
According to ESPN.com, Sports Illustrated's Peter King writes that a number of teams are concerned about Milliner and his shoulder, including the Philadelphia Eagles and the Cleveland Browns, while the The Philadelphia Enquirer reports that Milliner is behind schedule when it comes to rehab due to his pre-draft requirements and meetings, which could force him to slip. The shoulder issue could play into the reports that say the Browns are looking to trade back in the first round and one partner they could have is the Miami Dolphins.
The Browns desperately need another cornerback after Sheldon Brown left in free agency and despite having Joe Hayden the team needs another starter on the outside and Milliner could be that pick. Milliner could slip with some experts saying that Houston corner DJ Hayden is more NFL ready, but according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Browns are not concerned and that the reports have come out to "devalue" and "smear" Milliner ahead of the draft.
Milliner has had four surgeries on his shoulder, including one during the offseason between the championship game for Alabama and the draft. Experts say he could fall to 10 to the Titans or even to Miami at 12, which could be one reason why the Browns want to trade back. Milliner said he is fine and will be ready for the season, and the Lions could also be in the market for him.
The trade could make sense for the Dolphins, as they have the number 12 pick and will be out of reach for a left tackle, which is their biggest need after losing Jake Long in free agency. The team had permission to speak with Chiefs left tackle Branden Albert, but the contract issues have stalled, making them likely to go after Johnson harder and with the top two lineman expected to go in the top five, he will be gone by 12. The Cardinals could be in line for Johnson, which is why the Browns pick would be perfect for Miami.