With Jalen Milroe’s departure, these are the QB candidates to lead Alabama next season
As Alabama football navigates through the transition into the upcoming season, one of the most significant storylines will be the quest for a new starting quarterback. Jalen Milroe, who played an instrumental role in leading the team last year, has decided to depart from the program. Milroe’s departure leaves a void under center that will need to be filled, and for Alabama, the search for a new quarterback is of utmost importance as they continue their pursuit of national championships.
With Milroe no longer on the roster, the Crimson Tide coaching staff will have to evaluate several potential candidates to take over the quarterback position. This task will be especially challenging considering the high expectations surrounding Alabama football, a program that consistently competes for SEC titles and College Football Playoff spots. The quarterback position is one of the most pivotal positions in college football, and whoever is chosen to lead the team will need to exhibit not only physical skills but also the mental toughness and leadership necessary to thrive at the highest levels.
This article will take an in-depth look at the quarterbacks who are vying for the starting role at Alabama next season. We’ll analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and the factors that could influence the decision-making process as the coaching staff weighs who will best lead the team moving forward. From highly touted recruits to experienced players with prior playing time, Alabama has several viable options for next season’s starting quarterback.
Jalen Milroe’s Impact on Alabama’s Offense
Before diving into the potential candidates to replace Milroe, it’s essential to understand his role and impact on Alabama’s offense. Jalen Milroe, known for his athleticism and playmaking ability, had a dynamic season with the Crimson Tide. As a dual-threat quarterback, Milroe brought an exciting element to the offense with his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. His athleticism allowed him to extend plays, escape pressure, and create opportunities for big gains, which made him a key asset for Alabama’s offense.
However, Milroe also faced criticism for inconsistency in his passing game at times, particularly in crucial moments. Despite his physical tools, his ability to stay composed in high-pressure situations and his accuracy as a passer were areas where he had room for improvement. Milroe’s departure means that Alabama will now need to find a quarterback who can bring similar athletic ability to the table while also addressing the areas that were highlighted as weaknesses during Milroe’s time as the starter.
As Alabama searches for his successor, the coaching staff will likely look for a quarterback who can combine Milroe’s physical attributes with a more refined passing game. The next starting quarterback for Alabama will need to not only make plays with their legs but also be capable of leading a high-powered offense that has the talent around it to compete for championships.
Candidates for the Starting Quarterback Position
Now that we understand the kind of player Alabama is looking for to fill the void left by Milroe, let’s take a closer look at the quarterbacks on the roster who are vying for the starting role next season.
Ty Simpson: The Young, Highly-Touted Recruit
One of the most intriguing candidates for the starting quarterback position at Alabama is Ty Simpson. Simpson was one of the top quarterbacks in the 2023 recruiting class, and his reputation as a highly skilled passer and leader has generated a great deal of excitement within the Alabama fanbase. Known for his ability to read defenses and deliver accurate passes, Simpson has the tools to thrive in a pro-style offense, which is the system Alabama traditionally runs.
While Simpson has yet to see significant playing time in a starting role, his talent has been praised by coaches and teammates alike. The most significant question surrounding Simpson is his ability to perform at a high level in live game situations, especially under the pressure of SEC competition. Although he has all the tools to be successful, Simpson’s lack of extensive college experience could be a factor in his ability to take the reins immediately.
That being said, Simpson’s potential to grow into a star quarterback at Alabama is undeniable. If he is able to step into the starting role, his combination of accuracy, arm strength, and football IQ could help him develop into a leader for Alabama’s offense. The coaching staff will likely give him a fair shot at securing the starting position, but his ability to handle the speed of college football and adapt to the pressure of leading the Crimson Tide will be key in determining his readiness for the role.
Jalen Milroe’s Backup: Tyler Buchner
Another name that will certainly come up in the conversation for Alabama’s starting quarterback next season is Tyler Buchner, who transferred to Alabama from Notre Dame. Buchner brings with him a wealth of experience at the college level, having played in several games for the Fighting Irish during his tenure in South Bend. Buchner’s experience in big games, including some high-profile matchups, gives him an edge in terms of poise and understanding of what it takes to compete at the highest levels of college football.
While Buchner has not been able to fully showcase his skills as a starting quarterback due to injuries and a crowded quarterback room at Notre Dame, he is a highly capable player who has the tools to be successful in the SEC. His playing style is similar to that of Milroe, in that he is a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to make plays both in the passing game and as a ball carrier. Buchner’s athleticism and experience could make him an ideal candidate for the starting role, as he may be able to provide the kind of leadership and consistency that Alabama needs at the quarterback position.
However, it’s important to note that while Buchner has experience, his time at Notre Dame was not without its challenges. He will need to show that he can adapt to Alabama’s system and prove that he can elevate the offense. The competition for the starting role will certainly be fierce, but if Buchner can shake off any lingering doubts and prove his capabilities, he could be the one to lead Alabama back to the College Football Playoff.
The Dark Horse: Dylan Lonergan
Another potential candidate for the quarterback position is Dylan Lonergan, a highly regarded recruit from the 2024 class who has already enrolled at Alabama. Lonergan has been praised for his strong arm, accuracy, and leadership qualities. Although he is still a freshman, his impressive high school career has earned him a lot of attention, and he is seen as a player with the potential to make an immediate impact.
Given that he is a freshman, Lonergan’s chances of starting next season may depend on how quickly he can adjust to the college game and how well he performs during spring practice and fall camp. While it’s unlikely that he would be handed the starting role immediately, Lonergan’s development will be worth monitoring. If he performs well and impresses the coaching staff, he could emerge as a surprise candidate to take over the starting quarterback position in his first season.
What Alabama Needs in Its Next Quarterback
While each of the quarterbacks on the roster brings their own strengths and weaknesses to the table, the most important thing for Alabama is to find a player who can lead the team effectively. The Crimson Tide are consistently one of the most talented teams in the nation, and the quarterback must be someone who can manage the offense, make quick decisions, and avoid costly mistakes.
Additionally, Alabama’s next quarterback will need to be able to work with the talented supporting cast that surrounds them. The offensive line, running backs, and wide receivers all need a quarterback who can get the ball into their hands and make plays happen. Whether it’s making pinpoint throws or extending plays with their legs, Alabama’s quarterback will need to be a playmaker in every sense of the word.
