Will Alabama’s Jalen Milroe Follow Lamar Jackson’s Path to NFL Success?
By Archyde News Service
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is on quarterbacks, and one name generating considerable buzz is Jalen Milroe from the University of Alabama. While his college career showcased remarkable athleticism and rushing prowess, questions linger about his passing game, drawing comparisons to another dynamic quarterback: Lamar Jackson.
Milroe’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Milroe’s junior season in 2024 was nothing short of impressive on the ground. He “ranked second in the FBS with 20 rushing touchdowns, setting a school record while leading the Crimson Tide in rushing (726 yards).” His physical presence, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 217 pounds, makes him a formidable threat in the running game. He also “produced 2,844 passing yards with a 64.3 completion percentage.”
However, scouts are carefully evaluating his passing efficiency. His “16:11 touchdown-to-interception ratio might be what’s holding him back in first-round projections.” This ratio raises concerns about decision-making under pressure and accuracy when throwing into tight coverage, areas that are crucial for success at the NFL level.
Draft Projections and Potential landing Spots
While some analysts believe Milroe’s potential warrants a first-round selection, others project him to be an early second-round pick. NFL Draft analyst Chad Reuter “has Milroe getting taken with the first pick of the second round (33rd overall) by the Cleveland Browns in his latest seven-round mock draft.” The Browns, seeking a potential franchise quarterback to develop behind Deshaun Watson, could see Milroe as a valuable asset.
Other teams potentially interested in Milroe include those looking for a dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling. The Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks could all be in the mix depending on how the first round unfolds.
The Lamar Jackson Comparison
The comparison to Lamar Jackson is unavoidable.Jackson, who was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018, faced similar questions about his passing ability coming out of college.The Ravens “famously traded back into the first round to select Jackson with the No. 32 overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, and the rest has been unprecedented history for the two-time league MVP.”
Jackson’s career trajectory serves as a blueprint for how a team can successfully develop a quarterback with extraordinary running skills. In 2024, Jackson reached new heights, becoming the “first player in NFL history with 4000-plus passing yards and 800-plus rushing yards in the same season and nearly became just the seventh player ever to win MVP a third time.” His success underscores the value of a quarterback who can make plays with his legs.
The Importance of Passing development
While Milroe’s running ability is undeniable, his long-term success in the NFL hinges on his development as a passer. “Much like Jackson’s foray into the NFL, Milroe’s pro career will ultimately be decided by growth in the passing game.” NFL defenses are becoming increasingly elegant, and quarterbacks must be able to make accurate throws under pressure to consistently move the ball.
Though, some argue that focusing solely on passing statistics overlooks the intangible qualities that make a quarterback prosperous. Leadership, poise, and the ability to inspire teammates are difficult to quantify but can have a meaningful impact on a team’s performance. The source material argues that “the intangibles some scouts and coaches are seeing might be too good to pass up come Thursday night.”
recent Quarterback draft Trends
In recent years, the NFL has seen a shift towards quarterbacks who possess both athleticism and arm talent. Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Justin Herbert are prime examples of quarterbacks who can make plays with their legs and deliver accurate passes downfield. This trend suggests that teams are willing to take risks on quarterbacks with high ceilings, even if they have some flaws in their game.
According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), the average passer rating for NFL quarterbacks in 2024 was 92.5. This highlights the importance of accuracy and decision-making in the modern NFL. While running ability is a valuable asset, quarterbacks must be able to consistently complete passes to be successful.
| Quarterback | Draft Year | Rushing Yards (Rookie Season) | Passing Yards (Rookie Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lamar Jackson | 2018 | 695 | 1,206 |
| Patrick Mahomes | 2017 | 22 | 284 |
| Josh Allen | 2018 | 631 | 2,074 |
FAQ: Jalen Milroe and the NFL Draft
What are Jalen Milroe’s strengths as a quarterback?
Jalen Milroe is known for his exceptional athleticism and rushing ability. He is a strong runner who can make plays with his legs, and his leadership qualities are highly regarded.
What are the concerns about Jalen Milroe’s game?
The main concern about Milroe is his passing accuracy and decision-making. His touchdown-to-interception ratio raises questions about his ability to consistently complete passes under pressure.
Which NFL teams might be interested in drafting Jalen Milroe?
Teams looking for a dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling, such as the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints, and Seattle Seahawks, could be interested in drafting Milroe.
How does Jalen Milroe compare to Lamar Jackson?
Both Milroe and Jackson are dynamic quarterbacks with exceptional running skills. However, both faced questions about their passing ability coming out of college. Jackson’s NFL success provides a potential blueprint for Milroe’s development.
What does jalen Milroe need to do to succeed in the NFL?
To succeed in the NFL, Milroe needs to improve his passing accuracy, decision-making, and overall consistency as a passer. He also needs to continue developing his leadership skills and work ethic.
