Alabama lands nation's No. 1 cornerback

The University of Alabama boasts several National 100 defensive backs on their roster which includes B.J. Scott, Mark Barron and Dre Kirkpatrick. The Tide can chalk up another one in Demarcus Milliner from Millbrook-Stanhope Elmore, Ala. The state's No. 1 player talks of his decision.

"I am going to be wearing that Crimson jersey," said Demarcus Milliner before the scheduled press conference at 1:00. "I really decided about two weeks ago that Alabama was the place for me. I probably have known for longer that Alabama was the place I wanted to go."

"I love the tradition of the program. I will get a great education at Alabama. I will have a great opportunity for playing time. Those were some of the main reasons I decided to commit to Alabama."

The relationship with the Alabama coaches played a huge role in the decision.

"Coach Kirby Smart was my recruiting coach," Milliner said. "He is a real good person. He was always straightforward with me. He is going to always tell you what he thinks. He is just a great coach. I know he is going to have a lot of players in the secondary get drafted."

Milliner has played safety, wide receiver and running back in high school. He had never played cornerback until representing 'Team Alabama' in the Scout.com-New Level Athletics 7-on-7 tournament in Tampa. Scout.com recognized his extraordinary talent and elevated his ranking to the No. 1 cornerback in the country.

"Alabama wants me to come in and play corner," Milliner said. "They have also talked to me about possibly playing in the slot. I don't mind where I play. It really doesn't matter to me."

High school prospects from the state of Alabama know all about the passionate fans which reside in their state. Milliner addressed his future Tide fans.

"Alabama fans I want you all to know a few things," he said. "You are getting a player and person that is going to be dedicated to Alabama. I am going to be ready to play no matter where the coaches want to play me. I am always going to give it my best."

The 6-foot-1, 185-pound prospect said he chose Alabama over scholarship offers from Auburn, Georgia, LSU and South Carolina.

Milliner finished the 2008 season with seven interceptions and returned two for touchdowns. He had 57 total tackles with 33 unassisted. He returned two punts for touchdowns to go along with one kickoff returned for a touchdown.

He was named Area Defensive Player of the Year and ASWA 6A honorable mention as an Athlete.