Jalen Milroe faces another day of anticipation before discovering where he’ll continue his football career in the NFL.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, one name that has generated significant buzz and anticipation is Jalen Milroe, the former quarterback for the University of Alabama. For months, analysts, scouts, and fans alike have been speculating about where Milroe might land. His incredible athleticism, raw talent, and untapped potential have led many to believe that he could be one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s draft. However, as of now, Milroe faces another day of anticipation before discovering which NFL team will select him and give him the opportunity to prove himself at the highest level of competition.

This moment of suspense is not only a reflection of Milroe’s journey but also highlights the uncertainty and pressure that many athletes face as they transition from college to professional football. It is a process that has been filled with highs and lows, challenges, and growth, as Milroe looks ahead to what could be a transformative day in his career. Whether he is chosen in the first round, the second, or later in the draft, the outcome of his selection will have profound implications for his future.

In this article, we will take a deep dive into Jalen Milroe’s journey, his college career at Alabama, the evaluation process he underwent leading up to the draft, and what awaits him in the NFL. We will also explore the potential reasons behind the suspense surrounding his draft position and why many believe Milroe could become a hidden gem in the league.

Jalen Milroe’s Journey to the NFL

Jalen Milroe’s path to the NFL has not been a typical one. Like many players in his position, Milroe’s journey was defined by challenges, personal growth, and perseverance. A native of Katy, Texas, Milroe attended Tompkins High School, where he quickly garnered attention for his explosive athleticism and playmaking ability. He was highly regarded as one of the top quarterback recruits in the nation, and in 2021, he chose to continue his football career at the University of Alabama, joining a program that had recently seen unprecedented success under head coach Nick Saban.

Milroe’s arrival at Alabama came with the usual high expectations. He was a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing around 215 pounds, Milroe possessed the ideal frame for a modern NFL quarterback. His speed, agility, and strong arm immediately made him a standout, and he was expected to eventually compete for the starting role at Alabama.

However, Milroe’s early years at Alabama were defined by waiting in the wings. With former five-star quarterback Bryce Young firmly entrenched as the starter, Milroe had limited opportunities to showcase his talents in a starting role. Despite this, he continued to develop behind the scenes, learning from one of the best quarterbacks in college football and getting valuable reps in practice. Milroe’s ability to stay patient and continue to work on his craft despite limited playing time speaks to his character and determination—traits that NFL teams would later take into consideration during the draft evaluation process.

Breakout Moments and Showcasing Talent

Milroe’s real breakout came during the 2023 season, when he finally got his chance to shine as the starting quarterback for Alabama. After Bryce Young’s departure to the NFL, Milroe was given the keys to the offense, and he seized the opportunity with both hands. Although the season had its ups and downs, Milroe showed flashes of brilliance that had NFL scouts buzzing.

What made Milroe stand out in 2023 was his dual-threat ability. On the field, he demonstrated the ability to make spectacular throws downfield while also being a constant threat with his legs. His speed allowed him to break away from defenders and extend plays, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Milroe’s best performances came in games where he used both his arm and his legs to carve up defenses. Against teams like LSU and Texas A&M, Milroe’s combination of deep ball accuracy and scrambling ability made him nearly impossible to stop at times.

Statistically, Milroe threw for over 3,000 yards, accounted for 30 total touchdowns, and kept Alabama competitive in a highly competitive SEC. However, the Alabama offense was not without its inconsistencies, and Milroe’s development as a passer—particularly in terms of reading defenses and limiting turnovers—remained a work in progress. His completion percentage was lower than many would have hoped, and while he displayed an impressive deep ball, his short- and intermediate accuracy was often a question mark.

Still, Milroe’s raw potential was evident. His ability to create plays on the fly and his natural leadership qualities earned him a great deal of respect from teammates and coaches. By the time the 2024 NFL Draft evaluations rolled around, Milroe had established himself as a legitimate NFL prospect, even if questions about his consistency remained.

NFL Draft Evaluation: The Good and the Bad

As Milroe prepares to find out where he will play his professional football, the evaluation process leading up to the NFL Draft has been a rollercoaster. On the one hand, Milroe’s physical tools are among the best in the entire draft class. His arm strength, ability to throw on the run, and athleticism make him a compelling prospect, especially in today’s NFL, which is increasingly valuing mobile quarterbacks who can make plays outside of the pocket.

However, as with any quarterback prospect, Milroe’s draft stock has been affected by the inconsistencies in his game. His decision-making and accuracy have been points of concern, particularly when it comes to his ability to read defenses quickly and make adjustments on the fly. NFL teams are also wary of his lack of experience against top-tier defenses, as Alabama’s offense often leaned on a strong running game and short passes rather than asking Milroe to win games solely through the air. As a result, his projection in the draft has been somewhat polarized, with some experts believing he could go in the first or second round, while others see him as more of a developmental project who may need time to adjust to the NFL.

Teams looking for a traditional pocket passer may pass on Milroe, while those with a more innovative offensive system—one that emphasizes mobility and creativity—could see Milroe as a perfect fit. His draft position could ultimately come down to how confident NFL teams are in his ability to develop as a passer and whether they believe his athleticism can translate into sustained success at the next level.

What’s Next for Jalen Milroe?

As Milroe faces the unknown, the pressure is mounting. For a player who has spent years working toward this moment, the wait for his draft day decision is both thrilling and nerve-wracking. Whether he’s chosen in the first round by a team with a clear vision for his future, or he’s selected later as a project with a high ceiling, the important thing is that he will have the opportunity to prove himself.

Milroe’s future in the NFL will depend on several factors. First and foremost, he’ll need to continue developing as a passer. The team that selects him will likely have to invest significant time and resources into refining his mechanics and decision-making. Milroe’s mobility is certainly an asset, but NFL defenses will be far less forgiving than college defenses, and he will need to prove that he can consistently make the right reads and throw accurately under pressure.

Additionally, Milroe will have to prove that he can lead an NFL offense. The competition will be fierce, and the rookie season is often one of the most challenging periods in a player’s career. How Milroe adapts to the speed of the NFL game and his ability to connect with his teammates will play a major role in his success.

Anticipation and Possibility

Jalen Milroe’s journey to the NFL has been filled with determination, hard work, and an undeniable will to succeed. While his future remains uncertain as he waits for the final decision of the draft, one thing is clear: Milroe has all the tools to succeed at the next level. His athleticism, leadership, and raw talent make him a compelling prospect, and despite his inconsistencies, NFL teams are certainly intrigued by the possibilities he brings.

As he prepares to hear his name called on draft day, Milroe can take pride in the fact that his journey is just beginning. No matter where he ends up, the hard work he has put in throughout his college career will be the foundation for whatever comes next. And for fans of the NFL, one of the most exciting unknowns in the draft is what kind of player Jalen Milroe will become. Will he develop into a star quarterback capable of leading his team for years to come? Only time will tell—but the anticipation is palpable, and Milroe’s story is one that fans and analysts will be watching closely as the next chapter of his football career unfolds.