Jalen Milroe isn’t thinking ahead.
When asked about his decision-making process when it comes to the 2025 NFL Draft and if he had sought guidance about his decision, the Alabama football quarterback said he’s locked into the players he’s currently in the bunker with, with those who have poured everything into the Crimson Tide’s 2024 season.
But while Milroe’s status for 2025 is unclear, he recognizes what Alabama will have once Year 2 of the Kalen DeBoer era officially kicks off Aug. 30 against Florida State.
“Next year, there’s going to be a really talented group that’s going to be in a position to do a lot of special things next year,” Milroe said. “I’m excited for those guys for the opportunity that’s presented to them.”
And for Milroe, that starts with Ty Simpson.
Milroe said the Alabama redshirt sophomore quarterback does “a really good job constantly trying to improve,” just learning and growing in the position Milroe himself was once in.
“I’ve been in his shoes before being behind Bryce (Young) and just learning each and every day to try and be the best version of myself,” Milroe said. “That’s exactly what he does, just trying to be on his craft, learn, grow. It’s been awesome to see how much he’s grown as a quarterback and also as a leader. I’m behind him through this whole process and just enjoy being around him.
Simpson has backed up Milroe for the past two seasons, recording 381 passing yards, 130 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Simpson is still looking for his first passing touchdown.
After Dylan Lonergan announced his intention to enter the transfer portal, Alabama has Simpson, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell left as quarterback options in 2025 with Milroe’s status still unclear.
But the quarterback room is not all Milroe is looking at.
“I know it’s going to be a solid group for the 2025 season when it starts next year,” Milroe said. “We have a lot of great talent in each room. And so I know it’s going to be definitely a tough team to beat next year.”
But as for his personal decision, whether to play one more season at Alabama or enter the NFL draft, Milroe reiterates his focus is on the present.
Alabama will take on Michigan at 11 a.m. CT Dec. 31 in the ReliaQuest Bowl.
Colin Gay covers Alabama football for The Tuscaloosa News, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach him atcgay@gannett.com or follow him@_ColinGay on X, formerly known as Twitter.
