Seattle Seahawks Draft Alabama QB Jalen Milroe in Third Round of the NFL Draft

In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Seattle Seahawks made a bold and calculated move by selecting University of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe with the 92nd overall pick in the third round. Known for his explosive athleticism, dual-threat capabilities, and high-ceiling potential, Milroe is viewed by many as one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s quarterback class. With this selection, the Seahawks not only added a dynamic playmaker to their offense but also signaled their commitment to developing a young quarterback who could eventually compete for the starting job.
This moment marks the next chapter in Milroe’s football journey—one that began in Texas and matured under the spotlight of Alabama’s storied football program. Below, we’ll explore his early years, collegiate development, strengths and weaknesses, and what his future may hold as he joins the Seahawks.
Early Life and High School Career
Jalen Milroe was born on December 13, 2002, in Katy, Texas, a suburb of Houston. Raised in a disciplined and driven household—his father was a U.S. Marine and his mother worked in the Navy’s medical division—Milroe learned the values of perseverance, hard work, and leadership from a young age. These foundational traits would later define his football persona both on and off the field.
Milroe attended Tompkins High School in Katy, where he became a standout quarterback. In a state known for producing top-tier high school football talent, Milroe distinguished himself as a true dual-threat athlete. He threw for nearly 4,000 yards and 50 touchdowns over his career and added hundreds more yards on the ground. His ability to escape pressure and turn broken plays into big gains caught the attention of scouts across the nation.
He was rated as a four-star recruit and originally committed to the University of Texas, but later flipped to Alabama—a decision that would elevate both his competition level and long-term development under the guidance of Nick Saban and his elite staff.
Collegiate Career at Alabama
Milroe joined the Alabama Crimson Tide in 2021 and spent much of his early time behind star quarterback Bryce Young. His redshirt season was one of observation and adjustment, but he gradually began to see playing time in relief roles and special packages that took advantage of his athleticism.
It wasn’t until the 2023 season that Milroe truly took the reins as Alabama’s starting quarterback. Following Young’s departure to the NFL, the Tide transitioned into a new era, and Milroe was at the center of it. He faced both scrutiny and opportunity, and by the 2024 season, he emerged as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the country.
In his final season, Milroe passed for 2,844 yards and 23 touchdowns while rushing for 726 yards and 12 more scores. His performance against powerhouse programs like Georgia and LSU solidified his draft stock. In one particularly memorable game against Georgia, he threw for 374 yards and two touchdowns and ran for another 117 yards and two scores. These types of highlight-reel performances earned him national recognition and helped lead Alabama to another College Football Playoff berth.
Milroe’s efforts also extended beyond the field. He was awarded the William V. Campbell Trophy—often dubbed the “Academic Heisman”—for his academic excellence, leadership, and community service, showcasing that he was more than just a football player.
Draft Process and Selection by the Seahawks
Jalen Milroe entered the 2025 NFL Draft as one of the most polarizing quarterback prospects. Scouts raved about his athletic gifts, explosive mobility, and big-play ability, but there were also concerns about his rawness in the pocket and inconsistent accuracy.
At the NFL Combine and Alabama’s Pro Day, Milroe posted impressive physical numbers. His 40-yard dash time came in at a blazing 4.37 seconds—nearly unheard of for a quarterback of his size—and his vertical leap and arm strength wowed evaluators.
Several teams expressed interest, but it was the Seattle Seahawks who saw the long-term potential. By selecting Milroe with the 92nd pick in the third round, the Seahawks took a calculated risk—hoping to develop him into a future starter under the mentorship of their coaching staff and veteran players.
Scouting Report
Strengths:
- Elite Athleticism: Milroe is one of the fastest and most explosive quarterbacks in recent memory. His ability to escape pressure and make plays on the run puts stress on defenses and opens up creative play-calling opportunities.
- Strong Arm: He possesses a cannon of an arm capable of launching the football 60+ yards downfield. He can make every NFL throw and often threads tight windows with velocity.
- Leadership & Character: Milroe was voted team captain at Alabama and earned praise for his poise, discipline, and character. Coaches describe him as a tireless worker and vocal leader who rallies his teammates.
Weaknesses:
- Decision-Making: Milroe still struggles with processing speed and post-snap reads. He occasionally locks onto his first read or makes risky throws under pressure.
- Accuracy & Ball Placement: While he can throw a beautiful deep ball, his short and intermediate accuracy can be inconsistent. Footwork and timing need improvement.
- Pocket Awareness: He tends to bail from clean pockets too quickly instead of climbing or stepping into throws. Developing comfort in the pocket will be essential.
Fit with the Seattle Seahawks
Seattle provides a compelling landing spot for Milroe. Head coach Mike Macdonald and the Seahawks front office are known for their player development philosophy. With no pressure to start immediately, Milroe will have time to adjust to the speed of the NFL, improve his mechanics, and learn a pro-style offense.
The Seahawks also have a solid quarterback room. Whether Milroe starts as a backup behind an established veteran or competes with other young quarterbacks, the setup allows for a gradual learning curve. Additionally, Seattle’s offense—which emphasizes movement, zone-read principles, and occasional deep shots—could be tailored to fit Milroe’s strengths if he becomes the starter in the future.
With offensive weapons like DK Metcalf and Kenneth Walker III, as well as a growing offensive line, Milroe will be supported by a talented supporting cast when his number is called.
Milroe’s Outlook in the NFL
Jalen Milroe enters the NFL as a high-upside project. He may not be ready to start right away, but he brings with him the raw tools that few quarterbacks in the league possess. If he can refine his accuracy, improve his pocket discipline, and grow in his understanding of defensive schemes, he has the chance to become a franchise-caliber quarterback.
Quarterbacks with Milroe’s dual-threat skill set—such as Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Justin Fields—have transformed the way NFL offenses operate. While each of those players faced their own developmental curves, their success shows that athletic, mobile quarterbacks can thrive in the modern NFL with the right system and coaching.
Seattle’s investment in Milroe is more than just about depth; it’s a vision for the future. They see a quarterback who can electrify with his legs, make off-platform throws, and develop into a true dual-threat nightmare for opposing defenses.
The Seattle Seahawks’ decision to draft Jalen Milroe in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft could prove to be one of the more impactful picks of the year. While he’s far from a finished product, Milroe offers tremendous upside, unmatched athleticism, and strong leadership qualities. His journey from Katy, Texas, to Tuscaloosa, and now to the Pacific Northwest, is a testament to his growth, resilience, and belief in his own potential.
If developed correctly, Milroe could evolve from a promising prospect into a game-changing quarterback who helps usher in a new era for the Seattle Seahawks. Only time will tell, but the foundation is there—and Milroe is ready for the challenge.