Jalen Milroe, the former quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide, coined a new phrase to minimize the burgeoning NFL position-change speculations.

When it comes to college football, few things attract more attention than the path of a star quarterback, particularly one with the immense potential of Jalen Milroe. As the Alabama Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, Milroe became one of the most talked-about figures in the college football world. However, in recent months, as NFL scouts and analysts speculate about his future, rumors have swirled about whether the dynamic signal-caller will stay at quarterback or transition to a different position when he enters the professional ranks.
In a move that took many by surprise, Milroe, ever the confident and composed leader, addressed these speculations head-on. Rather than letting the rumors dictate the narrative, he coined a new phrase that shifted the conversation. The phrase, designed to downplay the growing speculation surrounding his future position, was crafted not just to protect his own mindset but also to give a clear message to the public: “Trust the process.”
This new phrase, “Trust the process,” became an immediate talking point in college football circles. As a former Crimson Tide quarterback, Milroe was well aware of the pressures and expectations that came with the territory. But he also understood that the journey from college to the NFL was filled with uncertainties. Milroe’s message, though simple, carried significant weight. It wasn’t just about silencing the chatter—it was about taking control of his own narrative, ensuring that he remained focused on the things he could control, and trusting that his work ethic and determination would ultimately shape his future.
In this article, we will explore why Milroe’s decision to coin the phrase “Trust the process” was so significant, what it says about his mindset, and how this approach helps him combat the burgeoning NFL position-change speculations. We will also delve into the potential implications for his future career and the broader conversation about athletes navigating such career-defining moments.
The Rise of Jalen Milroe: A Star in the Making
Before we explore Milroe’s new phrase, it’s important to first understand who Jalen Milroe is as a player. Born and raised in Katy, Texas, Milroe was a highly touted dual-threat quarterback coming out of high school, attracting attention from top programs around the country. Known for his athleticism, strong arm, and ability to make plays with both his legs and arm, Milroe quickly became one of the most sought-after recruits in his class.
Milroe committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide, one of the premier programs in the nation, which only amplified the expectations surrounding his future. Under head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has consistently produced elite quarterbacks, and Milroe was viewed as one of the future leaders of the Tide. Milroe’s ability to run the ball and create explosive plays from the quarterback position made him an exciting prospect, but his development as a passer would be crucial to determining his long-term success at the collegiate level and beyond.
Milroe’s early years at Alabama were filled with both highs and lows. He showed flashes of brilliance in limited playing time but also faced some growing pains as he adjusted to the pressures of being a starting quarterback at one of the nation’s top programs. However, his raw talent, poise, and commitment to getting better were never in question. As the Tide faced a changing landscape in college football, Milroe stood out as a leader and a player who could elevate Alabama’s offense.
In his starting role, Milroe impressed with his speed, arm strength, and ability to lead the team, but as with all young quarterbacks, questions about his consistency as a passer and decision-making emerged. The biggest issue that arose was the speculation about whether Milroe would remain a quarterback at the next level, or if his physical tools might translate better to another position—such as wide receiver, running back, or even safety.
The NFL Speculations: Could Milroe Switch Positions?
As Milroe’s time at Alabama continued to evolve, discussions surrounding his future began to shift. Scouts, analysts, and pundits took note of his unique blend of size, speed, and athleticism, which led many to question whether his future in the NFL might be as a position player rather than a quarterback. After all, in the modern NFL, there are many examples of dual-threat quarterbacks making the transition to other positions to prolong their careers or fit into a new system.
Milroe’s athleticism was undeniable—standing at 6’2″ and weighing 220 pounds, he had the physical traits of an elite quarterback, but also the speed and agility that could make him a versatile weapon in the NFL. Analysts began speculating that he could find success as a wide receiver, where his speed and route-running ability could be maximized, or even as a running back in certain systems that value the “wildcat” style of play. The NFL’s increasing embrace of position versatility and the rise of “quarterback-athletes”—players who can contribute in multiple roles—made it an appealing notion to some in the scouting community.
While these suggestions may have been well-meaning, the speculation was a reminder of the larger pressures and challenges that come with being a highly talented but still developing quarterback at a prestigious school. The conversation around Milroe began to shift from whether he would be a successful quarterback to whether his future might be better suited in another position. This put him in a position where, as he began to gain recognition, he had to not only address his own growth but also navigate these external discussions that threatened to overshadow his focus on improving as a passer.
“Trust the Process”: Taking Control of His Narrative
Rather than getting caught up in the swirling rumors about his future, Milroe chose to approach the situation with maturity and composure. During an interview, he coined the phrase that would define his mindset moving forward: “Trust the process.” The simplicity of the phrase belied its power. In one succinct line, Milroe conveyed a message of focus, resilience, and commitment to the journey he was on.
For Milroe, “Trust the process” meant staying grounded and believing in the work he was putting in. Whether it was perfecting his passing mechanics, improving his decision-making, or simply growing as a leader, Milroe was clear: he was not going to let external noise define him or his career. Instead, he would trust in the development process laid out for him by Alabama’s coaching staff and continue to improve with the goal of becoming the best quarterback he could be.
This phrase was also a message to those who speculated about his position change. Milroe was telling the public—and more importantly, NFL scouts—that he wasn’t concerned with speculation or expectations. Instead, he was focused on the work he needed to do to become a successful quarterback. The NFL would ultimately decide his future, but his job was to focus on the present: improving as a player and leading his team to victories.
The Significance of “Trust the Process”
Milroe’s decision to coin the phrase was far from a simple deflection of questions. Instead, it was a smart, measured response to the pressure and uncertainty that comes with being a top-tier college athlete in the age of media speculation. For many young athletes, the scrutiny can be overwhelming, and the constant barrage of opinions can lead to confusion and self-doubt. By framing the conversation around his commitment to the process, Milroe made it clear that he was in control of his own destiny.
The phrase also served as a subtle challenge to those who questioned his position as a quarterback. Instead of getting defensive or dismissive of the suggestions, Milroe embraced the opportunity to reaffirm his dedication to the quarterback position. “Trust the process” was not just a phrase for the media—it was a personal mantra that allowed Milroe to center his energy on what truly mattered: his growth as a quarterback.
Moreover, the phrase reinforced a larger message of patience and perseverance. Milroe’s journey from high school to college and potentially to the NFL is a long and complicated one. By asking others to “trust the process,” he was reminding them—and himself—that success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of years of work, learning, and adjusting. While he may not know exactly what the future holds, he trusts in the foundation he’s built and in his ability to adapt and improve as needed.
The Bigger Picture: Lessons for Future Athletes
Jalen Milroe’s handling of the NFL position-change speculation offers valuable lessons for athletes, particularly those who find themselves under intense scrutiny from a young age. In an era where the spotlight on young athletes is brighter than ever, the ability to block out the noise and remain focused on personal development is crucial. Milroe’s phrase, “Trust the process,” provides a simple yet powerful reminder to athletes that they can’t control every narrative—but they can control their work ethic, their attitude, and their journey.
For aspiring athletes, Milroe’s approach teaches the importance of self-awareness and mental fortitude. It’s easy to get lost in the pressure of external expectations, but staying focused on one’s own growth and progress is a powerful way to maintain control. Athletes must remember that their development is a marathon, not a sprint, and success will come as a result of sustained effort and commitment.
Trusting the Process Moving Forward
Jalen Milroe’s decision to coin the phrase “Trust the process” in response to the burgeoning NFL position-change speculations was a masterstroke. It allowed him to take control of his narrative, shift the focus back to his development as a quarterback, and convey a message of patience and commitment. By trusting in the process, Milroe not only minimized the distractions of speculation but also demonstrated the mindset needed to succeed at the highest levels of college football and beyond.
As Milroe’s career continues to evolve, “Trust the process” will likely remain a guiding principle for him. Whether he remains at quarterback or transitions to a new role in the NFL, one thing is clear: Jalen Milroe is determined to succeed on his own terms—and he’s confident that the work he’s putting in today will pay off tomorrow.