As the NFL Draft approaches, discussions around top quarterback prospects are heating up, and Jalen Milroe’s name is starting to generate some serious buzz. While some pundits are concerned he might tumble down the draft board, let’s take a moment to unpack why Milroe is a player that NFL teams may want to pay close attention to, rather than labeling him as a potential disappointment.
For starters, Milroe was invited to Green Bay for a reason, and it’s not just a courtesy call. In fact, he’s the only quarterback among the 17 draft attendees who carries plus-odds (+120 at DraftKings) for being selected in the first round. Now, while many mock drafts may not have him penciled in as a first-rounder—and some even suggest he might slip into the third round—taking a closer look at his skill set and collegiate experience reveals a different narrative that’s hard to ignore.
1. The Legs: An Athletic Dynamo
Milroe’s agility and speed instantly put him in the conversation as one of the more dynamic quarterbacks in this draft class. Racking up 736 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns last season, he boasts an impressive 81.1 rushing rating from Pro Football Focus. Rumor has it he clocked in at 4.40 seconds in the 40-yard dash at Alabama’s Pro Day, putting him right up there with the NFL’s best when it comes to quarterback mobility.
He isn’t just quick, either—Milroe has the kind of acceleration that can turn a play on a dime and break away for significant yardage. Think of him as a quarterback who can do it all; with time to develop his passing game, he could evolve into a real threat similar to Lamar Jackson or Jalen Hurts. Naturally, Milroe may need some polishing as a passer, but his running prowess can buy him that time.
2. The Arm: A Cannon of Potential
Though there are lingering questions about Milroe’s accuracy, one thing is crystal clear: he has formidable arm strength. He excels at delivering deep throws, as demonstrated by his stellar 95.8 grade on throws over 40 yards, ranking at the top of this draft class.
This attribute makes him attractive to teams that prioritize the deep ball in their offensive strategy. Picture teams like the Steelers, seeking to amplify their aerial attack with a quarterback who can send the ball deep to playmakers like DK Metcalf and George Pickens.
3. The Circumstances: Adjusting to Change
Let’s talk about the challenges Milroe faced during the latter part of his senior season. The entire Alabama offense struggled, and it wasn’t solely a reflection on him. With a new offensive scheme under Kalen DeBoer that differed dramatically from the Alabama tradition, Milroe was navigating uncharted waters. His primary target, the young Ryan Williams, was still adjusting to the collegiate level and became less reliable down the stretch.
His completion percentage dipped from 65.8% to 64.3%, and his passer rating took a hit as well. However, that was largely due to the circumstances around him, not just his performance. It’s worth noting that Milroe’s offensive coordinator from his junior year, Tommy Rees, has now landed at Cleveland, which could either draw the Browns to Milroe or bolster his reputation across the league.
4. Historical Trends: An NFL Drafting Philosophy
The NFL has a long history of teams favoring athletic prospects with strong arms, even if they come with some baggage in terms of accuracy. We all remember high-profile picks like Anthony Richardson and Josh Allen—players who faced similar criticisms but ultimately thrived when given a chance.
Coaches are often willing to overlook a rough season if they believe in a player’s upside. Just look at Jordan Love, who fell into the first round despite some inconsistencies in his college career. Teams know that talent can sometimes shine through the rough patches, and Milroe undeniably possesses the traits that scouts are hunting for.
5. The Personality: A Locker Room Asset
Beyond his physical abilities, Milroe is making waves for his off-the-field demeanor. Winning the William V. Campbell award showcases not only his academic success but also his leadership and character—an essential trait for any quarterback. In the eyes of NFL teams, a quarterback’s influence in the locker room can be just as vital as their on-field performance.
NFL Network’s Kyle Brandt has echoed that sentiment, noting Milroe’s sharpness, eagerness to learn, and a friendly personality that seems to resonate with everyone he meets. Even if he doesn’t step into a starting role right away, his positive energy can be a game-changer in boosting team morale.
With several teams reportedly impressed after their meetings with him, it’s not far-fetched to expect Milroe to hear his name called earlier than many anticipate. As draft night unfolds, don’t be surprised if this Alabama product steps into the spotlight, leaving the narrative of being the next draft night “disaster” behind him.
