Jalen Milroe’s journey from being one of the standout quarterbacks in 2023 to facing criticism in 2024 has been nothing short of dramatic. The Alabama QB had an impressive start to the 2024 season, leading his team to three consecutive wins, including a solid victory against the Georgia Bulldogs. However, things took a downturn quickly, with a surprising loss to Vanderbilt and a shaky win against South Carolina. These performances placed Milroe under intense scrutiny. His completion rate, once an impressive 70%, plummeted to a disappointing 55% during a game against Tennessee, leading many to question his consistency and potential.
Despite the criticism, Milroe began to turn things around. In a game against Missouri, he showed signs of recovery, completing around 61% of his passes and helping Alabama secure a dominant 34-0 win. While the stats weren’t groundbreaking, it marked a turning point for both Milroe and the team. The resurgence continued against LSU, where Alabama delivered a resounding 42-13 victory. Milroe’s performance, combined with the team’s success, reignited discussions about his NFL draft prospects. Some experts, like Kyle Henderson, even suggested Milroe could be a first-round draft pick, provided he maintains his recent form.
Still, doubts linger due to Milroe’s midseason struggles. Analysts like Mike Gillespie argue that Alabama might be better off if Milroe decides to leave rather than return for another year. On the other hand, supporters believe his best performances demonstrate his potential as one of the best in college football. As sports commentator Josh Pate pointed out, a fully committed and consistent Milroe would be an invaluable asset to any team.
Milroe’s late-season performances further strengthened his case for the draft. Against LSU, he scored four rushing touchdowns, showcasing his versatility. In a subsequent game against Mercer, he tallied two passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown, maintaining an impressive QBR above 91% across both games. These statistics underscored his ability to perform under pressure and reminded critics of his early-season promise.
As Alabama continues to dominate, attention has shifted to the team’s future without Milroe. Following the win against Mercer, where the team triumphed 52-7, three potential successors to the QB position emerged: Ty Simpson, Dylan Lonergan, and Austin Mack. Simpson contributed over 70 yards with five pass completions, Mack scored a touchdown, and Lonergan added 23 yards. While their stats were modest, their performances indicated potential, giving Alabama fans hope for the post-Milroe era.
Overall, Jalen Milroe’s journey this season has been one of highs and lows. Whether his recent resurgence is enough to secure a first-round draft spot remains uncertain, but his ability to bounce back under pressure has kept him in the conversation. As Alabama prepares for the future, the spotlight is firmly on Milroe and the young quarterbacks waiting in the wings.