Jalen Milroe just flipped the script. After a rocky Senior Bowl, his draft stock took a hit, but at the NFL Combine? He didn’t just show up—he stole the show. Well, the ex-Bama QB put on a jaw-dropping performance, proving he’s built for the big stage. And get this, his hand size even jumped a bit, though that’s not the main thing. What really turned heads was his whole vibe. While everyone’s talking about ‘arrogant’ QBs, Milroe just pleasantly surprised everyone.
Raiders insider Hondo Carpenter said, “His [interview] answers were tremendous, his knowledge was extremely impressive.” And Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt even called him the perfect fit for the Combine. Basically, he showed up and showed out. Looks like Milroe’s sending a clear message: doubt him at your own risk.
Yeah, the Senior Bowl raised some eyebrows, but his dual-threat ability? NFL teams are still watching closely. Projected as a second-round pick, he could be a steal for teams like the Las Vegas Raiders. CBS Sports thinks “Jalen Milroe is ready for his NFL opportunity.” And when they asked him what he wants from an NFL team, he didn’t even blink. He just laid it out there, strong and direct.
Actually, as a competitor through and through, he’s looking for a franchise that believes in him—because when given the chance, he’s ready to prove he belongs. And he put it best, stating, “Pour everything into me. That’s number one. And then also, coach me hard because they see something in me.” He then explained the reason behind his mindset, referring to his family background. Milroe said, “I come from a military background—only know one, only one way of achieving something—putting everything you can into it. And so, I had every type of coaching along my process of being a quarterback.”
After shining at Tompkins High School in Katy, Jalen Milroe took his talents to Alabama, where he played under Nick Saban (2021–2023) and Kalen DeBoer (2024). And he proved his resilience, adapting through coaching transitions and stepping up as a leader. Right now, the standout QB has one final ask from the NFL team that takes a chance on him. Milroe put it plainly: “All I need is opportunity, being presented their best. They’re all into me, and we’re gonna be able to do a lot of special things while I’m part of the organization. So, you know, that’s what I’m looking forward to—just getting the best out of the coaching staff.”
Under Nick Saban, Milroe evolved into a true dual-threat weapon. He took over as the starter in 2023, torching defenses for 2,834 passing yards, 23 TDs, and 12 rushing scores while leading Alabama to an SEC title. Then came 2024—a new era under Kalen DeBoer. And Milroe sharpened his precision, boosting his completion rate to 67% while racking up 3,215 yards and 29 TDs. Honestly, through change and challenge, he proved he could adapt, thrive, and lead.
Given that national analyst Joel Klatt took notice—Milroe didn’t run the 40-yard dash, but he didn’t need to. Instead, he let his arm do the talking. During passing drills, the Tide QB unleashed one of the best deep passes of the event, showcasing pure arm strength. And Klatt couldn’t hold back his praise, stating, “I really love Jalen Milroe. I really do. Now, is he inconsistent? Yes. Does he show top-end talent and traits? Absolutely. And that’s exactly why he is tailor-made for a combine.”
Safe to say, Milroe didn’t just show up—he made a statement. And now, Bama OC Ryan Grubb sets the record straight on the QB’s rollercoaster journey.
Jalen Milroe’s football future
During Senior Bowl week, Jalen Milroe faced a familiar but unfair question—one that many athletic Black QBs have heard before. Remember how all those draft guys were doubting Lamar Jackson, saying he should ditch QB and switch to wide receiver ’cause he was so athletic? Now it’s Milroe’s turn!
The QB was asked if he’d consider switching to running back. And his response was firm, stating, “No, it’s always quarterback. Of course, people ask what I can do, like changing positions or something. However, a zebra is never asked to be a dog.” Here, Alabama OC Ryan Grubb, who has never coached Milroe, addressed the issue with professionalism and intellect.
Grubb made it clear—Milroe is a QUARTERBACK, first and foremost. “I thought they did a really good job [last season] using Jalen with his legs. I know that’s not necessarily what Jalen wants to be known for. He wants to be a quarterback, and he is a very good one,” resounded Grubb. Meanwhile, Jason Fitz floated an idea—could an NFL team use Milroe as a pure runner in certain packages during his rookie year? Not sure, but once a perception is created as a non-QB, shaking it off is nearly impossible.
So, right now, Jalen Milroe is locked in as a QB. But where will he land in the NFL? That’s the real game-changer. His future hinges on the right coach and the right system—one willing to bet on his raw talent and mold it into something special. For a guy as versatile as Milroe, the team he lands on could make or break his whole career. With all those QB-hungry teams in the draft, could he sneak into the first round?
The post Jalen Milroe Sends Strong Message to NFL After Ryan Grubb Clears Stance on QB’s Twisted Fate appeared first on EssentiallySports.
