NFL Draft: 30 worst first-round picks of the 21st century
By Randy Gurzi
The New York Jets had one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL for years in Darrelle Revis, but after contract disputes and a torn ACL, the Jets sent Revis to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In return, they landed a first-round pick, which ended being the No. 13 pick which was used on defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson. They only made that pick after thinking they replaced Revis with their own selection in that draft.
At No. 9 overall, New York took Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner. This pick had red flags all over it, as Milliner struggled with health while playing for the Crimson Tide. He even had shoulder surgery ahead of the NFL Draft, which gave many teams pause despite the talent he had. New York showed no hesitation despite the issues and they were more than happy to land him at this spot.
It was obviously a mistake by the Jets to ignore the issues he had. After playing in 13 games and recording three picks as a rookie, the injury bug started popping up once again for Milliner. He played in just three games in his second season and five in his third — which also ended up being the last of his incredibly short career.
Entering his fourth season with the Jets, Milliner had his fifth-year option in his contract declined. Then before the season began he was released. The Carolina Panthers were reportedly interested in him, but he never got another shot with a new team.