© Gary Cosby Jr.-Tuscaloosa News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Jalen Milroe will soon hear his name called in the NFL Draft, though it likely won’t be in Thursday’s first round. The Alabama passer is considered a Day 2 pick as the 4th-best signal caller in the class.
Milroe considered his options prior to making his NFL decision. He flirted with the idea of a return to college before ultimately declaring for the draft. That return would not have been with the Crimson Tide according to a recent report.
Milroe spent four seasons in Tuscaloosa, with his last two as QB1. In that time, he led the program to a College Football Playoff appearance where Alabama fell to Michigan in Nick Saban’s final game.
The passer stayed through a coaching change and again won the starting role with Kalen DeBoer. The Tide took a step back with a 9-3 regular season before suffering another postseason defeat at the hands of the Wolverines.
Jalen Milroe was criticized for his play as a senior. He was inconsistent as a passer (11 INTs). He appeared to have tipped plays in the team’s bowl loss. Despite the up and down reviews, he entered the NFL Draft.
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The response he received from teammates might’ve pushed him into that decision. NFL Insider Tom Pelissero published a preview of the QB class ahead of draft night. His analysis of Milroe was telling.
Alabama did not want Jalen Milroe back.
“We heard out of Alabama all the skill [players] would’ve transferred if he came back. He wants to be known as a pocket quarterback and your best skill is you’re frickin’ fast.”
-Anonymous AFC coordinator
Pelissero wrote that offensive playmakers would’ve bolted from Tuscaloosa had Jalen Milroe returned. He opted not to do so.
Despite not being wanted by the Crimson Tide, Jalen Milroe did have the option to enter the transfer portal and play his final season elsewhere. He chose to look ahead to the NFL instead.
He’s one of the most intriguing prospects in the class. As the AFC coordinator mentioned, his ability to run is his best attribute. That’s led many to speculate of a potential position change at the next level.
Milroe has been adamant on continuing to play quarterback despite the suggestions, and there are a number of teams interested. The Steelers and Browns have been linked to the signal caller. He recently worked out for the New York Giants, too.
We’ll soon find out Milroe’s NFL landing spot, though that will likely come Friday, or even Saturday. His draft decision had a positive impact on his alma mater as it prevented a mass exodus. Hopefully his new teammates will give him a bit more grace.