Dee Milliner 2013 NFL Draft scouting notes

Dee Milliner | CB | Alabama, junior | 6-1, 198 pounds

First Word: Stuck in the shadows of Bengals first round pick Dre Kirkpatrick, Dee Milliner quietly developed into a reliable shutdown man for Alabama last season. While he didn't go against the opponent's best every week, he had a chance to showcase his ability in game's against team's with multiple wide receiver threats. He can be beaten by physical receivers, but his speed makes him tough to scorch over the top. Milliner also battles for the ball effectively an is willing to play physically. As of now, he is a fringe first round prospect. But he has the chance to play as Alabama's No. 1 cornerback this season, which will give him plenty of opportunity to prove his worth.

• Speed is a big asset for Milliner. He uses his wheels to keep receivers at bay on deep routes, but also effectively gets to the line of scrimmage to make plays against the run. He is very quick to recover.
• Milliner has an agressive, attacking mentality. He is sometimes overmatched by physical receivers, but that doesn't stop him from getting his nose in there to make a play on the ball.
• In an era where defensive backs are becoming less and less effective in run support, Milliner is a sound tackler and reliable run defender. His willingness to hit and wrap-up ability are big assets for Alabama's defense.
• Milliner definitely has some ball skills and can leap with the best of them.

• As mentioned earlier, Milliner struggled at times with physical wideouts. He has a willingness to play physically, so we'll see if he can mature into this part of his game.
• Milliner is still developing his understanding of coverage. He will occasionally lose his man or miss an assignment in zone. Again, Milliner is only a junior, so he has plenty of time to develop stronger awareness.