As the Alabama Crimson Tide prepare to face the Michigan Wolverines in the ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31, the focus will soon shift to key NFL draft decisions for several standout players on the roster. While the game itself in Tampa, Florida, is still over a week away, the program is already contemplating the possible future moves of its players once the season concludes. The outcome of the bowl game will mark a significant turning point for Alabama, as attention will quickly turn to decisions regarding the future of some of its top players.
Once the final whistle blows on the Michigan game, many questions will surround whether certain Alabama players will declare for the 2025 NFL draft or choose to return to college for another season. These decisions will have a profound impact on the team, potentially reshaping the roster for the 2025 season and beyond. Among those players, starting quarterback Jalen Milroe’s future is one of the most closely watched. Milroe, who has impressed throughout the season, is considered one of the top quarterback prospects for the 2025 draft. However, he still has an additional year of eligibility available. Should Milroe decide to return for his redshirt senior season, he would likely be the frontrunner to retain the starting job, giving Alabama a stable presence at quarterback. However, if Milroe opts to declare for the NFL, Alabama will be left with a quarterback competition, potentially between Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell, each of whom would have the opportunity to prove themselves as the new leader of the offense.
Another key player whose decision will have a significant impact on Alabama’s 2025 roster is starting left guard Tyler Booker. Booker has emerged as one of the top offensive linemen in the nation and is widely projected to be one of the first guards selected in the upcoming NFL draft. If he decides to turn pro, Alabama will lose a crucial piece of its offensive line, and the team will likely need to find a replacement for him in the lineup. On the other hand, if Booker opts to return for another season, he would provide stability for Alabama’s offensive line and be a cornerstone of the unit for the 2025 campaign.
Moving to the defense, one of the most pressing decisions comes at inside linebacker. Deontae Lawson, a senior who has been a key leader in Alabama’s defense, will have to decide whether to declare for the NFL draft or return for one final season. Lawson’s departure would leave a void at the linebacker position, and his decision will likely set off a competition for his spot. However, if Lawson returns to Tuscaloosa, he would automatically be a starter again, bolstering Alabama’s defense with his experience and leadership.
Similarly, Alabama’s other starting inside linebacker, junior Jihaad Campbell, has a decision to make as well. Like Lawson, Campbell has the option to declare for the NFL draft or return for his senior season. If he returns, he would continue to be a starting linebacker, providing Alabama with another experienced presence in the middle of its defense. However, if Campbell opts to leave early for the NFL, it would open up a new competition for the position, as Alabama looks for a player who can fill his role and contribute to the defense’s success in 2025.
The secondary also faces a crucial decision with starting cornerback Domani Jackson. Jackson, who has been a standout performer in Alabama’s defense, could choose to return for another season or declare for the draft. If Jackson decides to stay, he would continue as one of the top cornerbacks in college football, providing stability in the secondary. However, should he choose to enter the draft, Alabama would face a competition for his spot, with several promising players vying for the starting role. Players like Cameron Calhoun and Jaylen Mbakwe would likely be in the mix to replace Jackson, and this competition would be a focal point in Alabama’s offseason preparations.
Overall, Alabama’s roster decisions following the Michigan game will be critical in shaping the team’s future. The players’ choices regarding the NFL draft will have a lasting effect on the Crimson Tide’s chances in 2025, as the program seeks to continue its legacy of excellence. Key positions such as quarterback, offensive line, linebacker, and cornerback will all experience potential turnover, and the competition for starting roles will be fierce. While the team focuses on the upcoming bowl game, these draft decisions will be on the horizon, signaling a new chapter in Alabama football. As the program moves into 2025, these players’ choices will play a significant role in determining whether Alabama can remain a national championship contender or face a rebuilding phase as it adjusts to life without some of its key contributors.
