Jalen Milroe’s Decision to Return for Another Season at Alabama.
Jalen Milroe, the star quarterback for the University of Alabama, recently announced his decision to forgo declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft and instead return to play another season with the Crimson Tide. This decision has sent waves of excitement and anticipation through both Alabama fans and college football analysts alike. Milroe’s choice is not just significant for his personal career but also has far-reaching implications for the future of the Alabama football program. This in-depth exploration will examine Milroe’s decision from various angles: his growth as a player, his potential for improvement, his relationship with head coach Nick Saban, and the impact his return will have on Alabama’s upcoming season.
Milroe’s Journey to Alabama’s Star Quarterback
Jalen Milroe arrived at Alabama as a highly-rated recruit out of Katy, Texas, where he had established himself as a dual-threat quarterback. He was regarded as a dynamic playmaker with an impressive combination of speed, arm strength, and leadership. However, Milroe’s college journey didn’t start with immediate success as he had to adjust to the competitive nature of SEC football under head coach Nick Saban.
In his first season, Milroe played behind Bryce Young, one of the most decorated quarterbacks in Alabama history. Milroe didn’t see significant starting time in 2022, except for some mop-up duty and a couple of starts when Young was injured. His biggest moment came in a victory over Texas A&M in 2022, where he showcased flashes of brilliance, including a game-sealing touchdown run.
The 2023 season, however, marked Milroe’s full-fledged opportunity to take the reins as Alabama’s starting quarterback. Despite a rough start to the season, including a loss to Texas, Milroe quickly grew into his role. His performances against teams like Mississippi State, Arkansas, and Tennessee demonstrated the dynamic capabilities that had made him a sought-after recruit. With his athleticism and arm talent, Milroe brought a new dimension to Alabama’s offense, combining traditional pocket passing with the ability to break off explosive runs. He finished the 2023 season with notable statistics and a significant role in leading Alabama back into contention for the College Football Playoff.
Why Milroe’s Decision to Stay Makes Sense
In the world of college football, where players are often encouraged to leave early for the NFL, Milroe’s decision to return for his senior season at Alabama is a surprising but understandable one. While it’s true that Milroe has the physical tools to succeed at the next level, there are several key reasons why staying for another year at Alabama is the right move for both his development and future NFL prospects.
1. Refining His Skills
Despite his progress in 2023, Milroe’s game still has areas that need refinement. While he has a cannon for an arm and elite athleticism, his decision-making, consistency in passing, and overall offensive awareness need further development before he can thrive in the NFL. Milroe’s ability to read defenses, manage the pocket, and make more accurate throws on a consistent basis will benefit greatly from another year of coaching under Nick Saban and offensive coordinator Tommy Rees.
The NFL is filled with talented quarterbacks, and Milroe’s draft stock might not be as high as he would hope if he enters the draft now. With another season at Alabama, Milroe has the chance to build on the foundation he laid in 2023 and further develop his mechanics, footwork, and deep ball accuracy. It is crucial for him to develop the kind of polish that NFL scouts crave, especially if he hopes to be drafted early.
2. Competing for a National Championship
Another factor in Milroe’s decision to stay could be the opportunity to compete for a national championship. Alabama football is synonymous with championships, and under Nick Saban, the program has maintained a level of excellence that continues to draw top talent. With the Crimson Tide remaining in contention for the College Football Playoff in 2024, Milroe could lead his team to a title, cementing his legacy in Tuscaloosa.
Given the talent Alabama has around Milroe, including a strong offensive line, a gifted receiving corps, and a historically tough defense, his decision to return could give him one final chance to compete for college football’s ultimate prize. The opportunity to lead Alabama back to the top of college football, potentially becoming the next championship-winning quarterback in Saban’s storied tenure, is a rare and enticing opportunity.
3. Building His Draft Stock
While Milroe’s current draft stock is solid, it’s possible that his decision to stay at Alabama could propel him into the conversation for one of the top quarterbacks selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. With another year to improve his game, Milroe could increase his visibility among NFL scouts and executives, particularly if he can take the Crimson Tide to the promised land. A strong showing in the SEC and a potential College Football Playoff run could elevate Milroe’s draft stock in a way that staying in college for one more year would likely do better than entering the NFL Draft prematurely.
By refining his craft in a familiar environment at Alabama, Milroe could position himself as one of the premier quarterback prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that could ultimately benefit him both financially and professionally.
Milroe’s Relationship with Nick Saban
A key aspect of Milroe’s decision to stay at Alabama is his relationship with head coach Nick Saban. Saban is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the history of college football, and his ability to develop quarterbacks into NFL-caliber players is unmatched. Milroe has already benefited from Saban’s coaching and mentorship, but another year under Saban’s tutelage could prove invaluable.
Saban is known for pushing his players to their limits and fostering an environment where they can reach their full potential. For Milroe, that means learning how to become a more complete quarterback — one who can succeed in both the passing and running games. Saban has proven time and again that he knows how to get the most out of his quarterbacks, whether they are traditional pocket passers or dual-threat playmakers like Milroe. By returning to Alabama for another season, Milroe has the chance to further develop under the guidance of a legendary coach who has shaped the careers of numerous NFL quarterbacks, including Tua Tagovailoa, Jalen Hurts, and Mac Jones.
The Impact on Alabama’s 2024 Season
Milroe’s return is expected to have a profound impact on Alabama’s 2024 season. With a starting quarterback who has experience leading the team and significant upside, Alabama is primed for another championship run. Milroe’s leadership and playmaking ability will be a key factor in the success of Alabama’s offense next season.
In addition to Milroe, Alabama’s roster will be filled with returning talent and promising recruits. The team’s offensive line, wide receivers, and running backs will all provide Milroe with the tools he needs to succeed. If Milroe can develop into a more polished quarterback, Alabama’s offense will become even more dangerous, and the team will have the potential to compete with the best in college football.
Defensively, Alabama has been a dominant force for years, and with another season of improvements on that side of the ball, Milroe will have the opportunity to lead a team with the balance needed to take down the nation’s top opponents.
