Introduction: The 2025 NFL Draft has come and gone, and one name that stands out from the quarterback class is Jalen Milroe. A dynamic playmaker from the University of Alabama, Milroe was selected in the third round, marking the next step in a promising career. Known for his raw athleticism, powerful arm, and ability to make plays with his legs, Milroe represents a modern-style quarterback that blends physical tools with the potential for growth. This article explores Milroe’s journey to the NFL, his time at Alabama, and the potential impact he could make at the professional level.
Early Life and High School Career: Jalen Milroe was born on July 16, 2002, in Katy, Texas. Growing up in a football-loving family, Milroe’s natural athletic abilities were apparent from a young age. His journey to becoming a top-tier quarterback began at Tompkins High School in Katy, where he quickly earned recognition as one of the top high school quarterbacks in the nation.
At Tompkins, Milroe displayed a dual-threat ability that would become a hallmark of his playing style in college. He finished his high school career with impressive statistics, including over 4,000 passing yards and 50 total touchdowns, while also showing the ability to extend plays with his legs. His athleticism, speed, and versatility made him an immediate star in Texas high school football, earning him a five-star rating and a spot as one of the top quarterback prospects in the country.
Milroe’s high school success garnered attention from some of the top college football programs across the country. However, he ultimately chose to play for the University of Alabama, one of the premier programs in college football under head coach Nick Saban. His decision to commit to Alabama placed him on a path to one of the most storied football careers in recent history.
Alabama Career: Milroe’s time at Alabama began with immense expectations. As one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, he was entering a program rich with history, tradition, and a pipeline of elite talent at the quarterback position. Alabama had recently seen the successes of quarterbacks like Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Bryce Young, all of whom had achieved significant success in college and moved on to successful NFL careers.
Milroe’s first season at Alabama came in 2021, but he was not the starter. He spent his freshman year as a backup to Bryce Young, the Heisman Trophy winner and the number one overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, Milroe’s potential was evident even in limited action, showcasing his athleticism and ability to make plays when called upon. Despite limited snaps, he appeared in several games, gaining valuable experience and learning from one of the best quarterbacks in college football.
The 2022 season marked a pivotal point in Milroe’s career. With Bryce Young departing to the NFL, the starting quarterback role was up for grabs. Milroe entered a heated competition for the starting job with former top recruit Ty Simpson and Notre Dame transfer Tyler Buchner. The coaching staff ultimately named Milroe the starter for the 2023 season.
Milroe’s 2023 season was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. As a starting quarterback for one of the most prestigious programs in the country, Milroe faced enormous pressure to deliver results. He started the season with a bang, leading Alabama to a decisive victory over Middle Tennessee and throwing for over 200 yards and two touchdowns. His ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground became immediately evident, with his dual-threat capabilities giving Alabama a potent offensive weapon.
However, as the season wore on, Milroe’s performance became a topic of scrutiny. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, there were moments of inconsistency. Milroe had a tendency to be inaccurate with his passes, particularly on deeper routes, and his decision-making was questioned at times. Nonetheless, his ability to extend plays and make game-changing runs kept him as the focal point of Alabama’s offense.
One of Milroe’s most memorable performances came in the Iron Bowl against Auburn, where he led Alabama to a dramatic comeback victory with a series of clutch throws and runs. Milroe demonstrated poise under pressure and showcased his ability to thrive in high-stakes situations. While his passing game still had room for growth, his physical tools were undeniable, and he finished the season with impressive statistics, including over 2,500 yards passing and 25 total touchdowns.
Milroe’s Strengths: Milroe’s biggest strengths as a quarterback lie in his raw athleticism, strong arm, and playmaking ability. His speed and agility make him a serious threat as a dual-threat quarterback. Milroe is capable of evading defenders and turning broken plays into explosive runs, a skill that is becoming increasingly valuable in the modern NFL.
At 6’2″ and 215 pounds, Milroe possesses the physical frame to handle the rigors of the professional game. His strong arm allows him to make throws to all areas of the field, and while his accuracy is still a work in progress, his arm strength is a major asset. Milroe’s ability to stretch the defense both vertically and horizontally will make him a dangerous quarterback in any system that values mobility and the ability to make quick decisions.
Milroe’s leadership and work ethic are also among his standout qualities. He is known for his competitive nature and his relentless drive to improve. These qualities were on display during his time at Alabama, where he earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, even during the times when he faced criticism for his inconsistency.
Areas of Improvement: While Milroe’s physical tools are undeniable, there are areas of his game that need refinement for him to succeed at the NFL level. His most significant weakness is his accuracy as a passer, particularly on intermediate and deep throws. At times, Milroe’s mechanics have been inconsistent, leading to off-target throws and missed opportunities. Improving his footwork, mechanics, and overall decision-making will be key to his development as a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Another area for improvement is his ability to read defenses. While Milroe is exceptional at using his legs to make plays when things break down, his ability to go through his progressions and make quick, accurate decisions in the pocket will be crucial at the next level. The speed of the NFL game will require him to process information faster and make better decisions under pressure.
NFL Draft and Third-Round Selection: Despite his occasional struggles, Milroe’s potential was enough to earn him a third-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. The quarterback class of 2025 was filled with a number of intriguing prospects, but Milroe’s athleticism and upside made him one of the most tantalizing picks for teams in need of a quarterback with high potential.
Milroe’s selection in the third round was a reflection of both his undeniable physical talent and the need for continued development. Teams that selected Milroe understood that he was a work in progress but possessed the raw tools to become a starting quarterback with time and the right coaching. The third round is often seen as a sweet spot for quarterbacks who have the potential to develop into stars but need time to refine their skills. Milroe’s ability to sit behind a veteran quarterback and learn the intricacies of the game will be critical in his transition to the NFL.
Outlook for Milroe’s NFL Career: Jalen Milroe’s path to the NFL is one that mirrors the growing trend of dual-threat quarterbacks who rely on athleticism and strong arms to thrive in the modern NFL. With the right development, Milroe has the potential to become a game-changing quarterback in the league. His ability to make plays with his legs and arm, combined with his leadership and competitive nature, makes him an intriguing prospect for any team looking to develop a future star.
In the right system, Milroe could develop into a quarterback who can lead a high-powered offense, utilizing his dual-threat abilities to keep defenses on their heels. With a few years of seasoning and improvement in his mechanics, Milroe could become one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the NFL.
Jalen Milroe’s selection in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft is just the beginning of what could be an exciting career in professional football. From his high school days in Katy, Texas, to his time as a starting quarterback at Alabama, Milroe has shown that he has the talent and drive to succeed at the next level. With continued development, he has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker for the NFL team that gives him the time and resources to grow. Whether as a starter or as a high-potential backup, Milroe’s future in the NFL looks promising, and his story is one that football fans will be watching closely for years to come.
