Dee Milliner is being considered one of the best overall players in the upcoming NFL draft. The former Alabama cornerback is certainly the best at his position and is a lock to be a top five or top 10 pick while also being thought of as a possible No. 1 overall selection. The cornerback was forced to undergo surgery for the torn labrum in March, but says he feels fine while being courted by multiple teams.
Milliner wowed NFL scouts earlier at the combine with his overall fitness. He ran a 4.37 40-yard dash, placing him has one of the fastest defensive players in the draft class. He excelled in the all of the drills proving to be flexible and have great agility. Last season as a junior for Alabama's championship team, Milliner compiled 54 total tackles, two interceptions and 22 passes defended. He led a Crimson Tide defensive unit that led the SEC in passing defense, only giving up 173.6 passing yards per game.
Milliner did have the labrum surgery in March that would be the one thing that could hinder his draft status. A few experts say an injury this close to the draft could make teams less likely to grab him at the chance he is not healed in time to start practice with the team. However, during a scheduled visit with the Detroit Lions, Milliner says that his shoulder feels good and he will be healthy by the time the season starts.
The Lions are just one of the teams interested in Milliner. The Detroit defense has been using the draft to focus on a struggling secondary. They ranked just 14th in pass defense last season, only compiling 11 interceptions total and giving up an average of 223.1 yards per game. The Philadelphia Eagles are also heavily interested in the talented player. After losing Nnamdi Asomugha to free agency, they are in need of talent in the secondary.
Many draft experts have Milliner also going at No.6 to the Cleveland Browns. Some even say the Kansas City Chiefs are an option at No.1 overall. Head coach Andy Reid has always shown an interest in cornerbacks and right now, Milliner is the best there is.
