BY NICK ST. DENIS
The New York Jets announced the signing of their top rookie, first-round cornerback Dee Milliner, Sunday night.
According to ESPN New York's Rich Cimini, Milliner's new contract is worth $12.66 million -- fully guaranteed -- over four years. With that, Milliner now must prove he's worth it.
The former Alabama defensive back had shoulder surgery in March and was unable to participate in all of the team's offseason workouts. He has a lot of catching up to do.
Gang Green drafted Milliner at No. 9 overall with every intention to start him right off the bat opposite Antonio Cromartie. You know, where a guy named Darrelle Revis used to post up before getting traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If Milliner isn't ready to be thrust into the No. 2 job, coach Rex Ryan will be forced to start an underwhelming Kyle Wilson, who was drafted in the first round in 2010. That wouldn't be the end-all, be-all, but it would be a disappointment and a setback.
Milliner is expected to report to training camp Monday. The Jets now have all of their rookies under contract.
Milliner tallied six interceptions in his college career and racked up 22 passes defensed last season alone during Alabama's National Championship campaign.
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