Grade
93.2 ?4.37 SEC
Top Performer36.0 INCH
Top Performer122.0 INCH
Top Performer6.95 SEC
Top Performer4.32 SEC
Top Performer
Blue Star = Top Performer
- 6'0" Height
- 32" Arm Length
- 201LBS. Weight
- 8 3/4" Hands
Overview
Milliner’s accomplishments during the Tide’s march to the 2011 BCS Championship weren’t well-known across the country because of the star power surrounding him on defense. With Dre Kirkpatrick earning national honors at one cornerback spot and fellow All-Americans linebacker Dont’a Hightower and safety Mark Barron also getting selected in the first round of the 2012 draft, it’s easy to see why Milliner wasn’t a household name. Now that Kirkpatrick, Menzie, and Barron are off to the NFL, Milliner was forced to be a lynchpin as the veteran in Alabama’s secondary.
Those following recruiting on a regular basis know Milliner well, as he was everyone’s All-American coming out of high school and ranked among the best cornerbacks and top 20 overall prospects in the country because of his elite combination of size and athleticism. Alabama head coach Nick Saban kept his word on any promise he might have made to Milliner on playing time in his true freshman season, as DeMarcus (nicknamed “Dee”) got into every game and started 11 on a loaded defense while also contributing on special teams. He was named to the Freshman All-SEC squad for his efforts (55 tackles, one interception, seven pass break-ups). Though he only started six games in 2011, he played consistently as the outside cornerback against pass-happy teams as senior DeQuan Menzie moved inside to the slot. When he got onto the field, Milliner made the most of his opportunities, intercepting three passes (one which he took in for a touchdown against rival Auburn) and breaking up nine others.
During his outstanding junior season, Milliner recorded 54 tackles, two interceptions, and a stunning 22 passes defensed on his way to a unanimous selection to the first-team All-American and All-SEC teams. He helped anchor the secondary for another National Championship season for the Tide, recording two passes defensed as he covered standout Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert in the BCS Championship game.
Analysis
Weaknesses
Stout running backs and physical receivers can run through his tackles, and he has a tendency to leave his feet and lunge. He should continue to get stronger, but needs to break down more consistently to get leverage. Dives at the feet of ballcarriers regularly, can be eluded in space. Doesn’t always land heavy hands on his man at the line of scrimmage when required, but his recovery speed usually makes up for it. Played on a loaded defense, pro quarterbacks will challenge his coverage at the next level. Like all Saban cornerbacks, he was not taught or asked to backpedal in college, and will need to develop new technique and footwork. Can lose track of the ball in the air and will mistime his plays on the ball.NFL Comparison
Carlos RogersBottom Line
Overshadowed by his high-profile teammates like fellow corner Dre Kirkpatrick over the span of two seasons, Milliner has made plays when given the chance (six interceptions, 38 pass break-ups in three years starting). He is ready to use his pro-ready size, athleticism and change-of-direction ability to become a household name in the NFL after winning back-to-back BCS Championships at Alabama. Milliner’s role grew extensively as a junior, and he showed the skills to be a first-round pick in the NFL.
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| Grade | Title | Draft (Round) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 96-100 | Future Hall of Famer | Top Pick | A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played |
| 85-95 | Immediate Starter | 1st | An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter). |
| 70-84 | Eventual Starter | 2nd-3rd | A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position. |
| 50-69 | Draftable Player | 4th-7th | A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential. |
| 20-49 | Free Agent | UDFA | A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body. |
