The NFL Draft Nears: A Closer Look at Jalen Milroe
With the NFL Scouting Combine now a memory, the focus shifts to the upcoming draft. For prospects like Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe, the road ahead is filled with uncertainty. Milroe, who played a significant role in the Crimson Tide’s offense, participated in only one on-field workout in Indianapolis—throwing drills. During these sessions, he demonstrated his capacity to launch deep passes, a skill that proved valuable and impressive over his college career. Scouts, in particular, were captivated by his physique and a unique improvement in his hand size, which increased by half an inch in just 28 days. However, Milroe’s decision to skip one of his strongest attributes—running—has left many wondering and possibly questioning his draft prospects.
Milroe’s Unconventional Decision
Despite his claims of being able to run the 40-yard dash in an outstanding 4.3 seconds, Milroe chose not to participate in the drill. This decision is puzzling, especially given the potential impact it could have on his draft stock. According to Bruce Feldman of The Athletic, an NFL team staff was intrigued by Milroe’s assertion and suggested that a 4.3-second 40-yard dash would significantly impress scouts and potentially elevate his draft position by a round. Milroe, however, remained steadfast in his decision to avoid the drill. The reasoning behind this choice remains unclear, leaving scouts and analysts to speculate. His powerful arm and excellent work ethic are noted positives, but his inconsistency as a passer continues to be a concern.
Milroe’s Athletic Prowess at Alabama
Milroe’s athleticism was a defining aspect of his time at Alabama. His ability to run with the ball was particularly noteworthy, as he broke the 100-yard rushing mark in three different games last season. By the end of his college career, he had accumulated 726 rushing yards and an impressive 20 rushing touchdowns, outpacing the 16 passing touchdowns he recorded. This dual-threat capability made him a formidable force on the field and earned him the moniker of an "elite, elite runner" from NFL Network draft analysts, even during his throwing sessions. Despite his limitations as a passer, Milroe’s running ability was undeniable and a critical component of Alabama’s offensive strategy.
The Decision to Stay at Quarterback
In February, during an interview with Pro Football Talk, Milroe was asked whether he would consider a position change given his running prowess. His response, "You never ask a zebra to be a dog," succinctly conveyed his commitment to the quarterback position. This statement reflects his belief in his potential as a quarterback and his unwillingness to move to another position, even if it might seem more advantageous. Milroe’s stance highlights the confidence he has in his abilities and the unique skill set he brings to the table. However, it also underscores the risks and challenges he faces in transitioning to the professional level.
A Wild Card in the 2024 NFL Draft
Jalen Milroe is one of the biggest wild cards in the 2024 NFL Draft. His talents are undeniable, but his inconsistencies as a passer and his decision not to showcase his running ability have made him a polarizing prospect. Some believe that with the right coaching and system, Milroe could flourish and become a star. USA Today’s Mike Freeman emphasizes that Milroe needs to land with a team whose coaches are open-minded and willing to design an offense around his unique skills. Patience will be key, as Milroe’s raw talent needs refinement to translate effectively to the NFL. The combination of his dual-threat capabilities and the need for improvement in his passing accuracy makes him a high-risk, high-reward choice for any team considering him.
The Future Awaits: Patience and Potential
Milroe’s college career at Alabama was marked by moments of brilliance, but he never quite reached the consistent heights that the Crimson Tide and fans hoped for. His decision to forgo the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine adds another layer of uncertainty to his draft prospects. The NFL is a league where adaptability and continuous improvement are paramount, and Milroe will need to demonstrate both qualities to succeed. The question now is which team will take the risk on him and whether Milroe can live up to his own expectations and the potential many see in him. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Jalen Milroe, waiting to see where his unique talents will take him in the next chapter of his football journey.
