Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has announced his decision to forego his remaining eligibility and enter the 2025 NFL Draft. The talented signal-caller, who had previously redshirted as a freshman in 2021, has already earned his undergraduate degree and was a redshirt junior during the 2024 season.
Milroe expressed his gratitude towards his teammates and coaches in a heartfelt message shared on social media. He thanked his teammates for the camaraderie and dedication they shared, acknowledging the lasting bonds forged during his time at Alabama. In particular, he extended his appreciation to head coach Nick Saban for his belief in Milroe and for instilling a culture of excellence, as well as to offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer for his guidance and role in Milroe’s development as a player and leader.
During his tenure as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, Milroe showcased a dynamic skill set that garnered attention from NFL scouts. In the 2024 season, he completed 205 of 319 pass attempts for 2,844 yards and 16 touchdowns, while also showcasing his mobility by rushing for 726 yards and 20 touchdowns. Despite his impressive performances, Milroe’s journey was not without its ups and downs, exemplified by moments of brilliance juxtaposed with occasional struggles, such as a challenging outing in Alabama’s recent bowl loss to Michigan.
Milroe’s path to the starting role was marked by both triumphs and setbacks. After initially earning the starting quarterback position ahead of the 2023 season, he faced adversity following a tough performance against Texas that resulted in him being temporarily benched. However, he reclaimed his starting spot in the subsequent game against Ole Miss, delivering a strong showing and ultimately solidifying his position as the team’s leader under center.
Reflecting on his accomplishments, Milroe’s contributions to Alabama’s success were significant, including a sixth-place finish in Heisman Trophy voting and a pivotal role in securing the SEC title and a spot in the College Football Playoff. Despite the team’s 9-4 record in DeBoer’s debut season as offensive coordinator, the season was not without its challenges, as Alabama fell short of its typical dominance in the postseason.
As Milroe embarks on the next chapter of his football career, the attention now shifts to his potential impact at the professional level. With a combination of athleticism, arm talent, and experience in a high-pressure collegiate environment, Milroe is poised to draw interest from NFL teams seeking a dynamic playmaker at the quarterback position. His journey from Alabama standout to NFL prospect serves as a testament to his perseverance and dedication to his craft, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in his football career.
