Alabama Crimson Tide Owner Stunned as Head Coach Kalen DeBoer Announces Major Decision on QB Jalen Milroe as…

In a pivotal moment for the Alabama Crimson Tide football program, head coach Kalen DeBoer has announced that starting quarterback Jalen Milroe will forgo his remaining college eligibility to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision has reportedly left team owner Mal Moore and the broader Alabama community in a state of surprise and reflection.

Jalen Milroe’s Tenure at Alabama

Jalen Milroe, 22, has been a cornerstone of Alabama’s offense over the past two seasons. After stepping into the starting role in 2023, Milroe led the Crimson Tide to a College Football Playoff berth, though they were eliminated by Michigan in the semifinals. The following season, under the new leadership of head coach Kalen DeBoer, Alabama concluded with a 9-3 record, culminating in a narrow 19-13 loss to Michigan in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Throughout his collegiate career, Milroe amassed impressive statistics, throwing for 6,016 yards, 45 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions. He also showcased his dual-threat capabilities by rushing for 1,577 yards and securing 33 touchdowns on the ground, with 20 rushing touchdowns in his final season alone.

Coach Kalen DeBoer’s Perspective

Coach DeBoer, who took over the program following the unexpected retirement of legendary coach Nick Saban, has been vocal about Milroe’s development and leadership. Despite a challenging start in the ReliaQuest Bowl, where Milroe committed three turnovers in the first quarter, DeBoer chose to keep him in the game. When questioned about this decision, DeBoer stated, “I saw a fighter. I saw the fight in his eyes, and as long as I see that, I want to hang in there with the guys that this program means a lot to.”

DeBoer further elaborated on Milroe’s resilience, noting that despite early setbacks, the quarterback led a 95-plus yard drive in less than a minute, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure. This unwavering confidence in Milroe underscores the strong bond and mutual respect between the coach and his quarterback.

Implications for the Alabama Program

Milroe’s departure ushers in a new chapter for the Crimson Tide’s offense. The focus now shifts to identifying his successor, with several candidates emerging as potential frontrunners:

Ty Simpson: A redshirt sophomore and former five-star recruit, Simpson has served as Milroe’s backup and possesses the most experience among the contenders. His familiarity with the system positions him as a strong candidate for the starting role.
Austin Mack: A four-star recruit from the Class of 2024, Mack brings a fresh perspective and is eager to make his mark. His performance in practice and preseason will be closely monitored as the coaching staff evaluates his readiness.
Keelon Russell: A highly-touted five-star recruit from the Class of 2025, Russell is regarded as the future of the Crimson Tide. Despite being a true freshman, his athleticism and potential could make him a viable contender for the starting position.

The upcoming spring practices and preseason camps will be critical in determining who will lead Alabama’s offense in the post-Milroe era. Coach DeBoer and his staff face the formidable task of ensuring a seamless transition to maintain the program’s storied tradition of excellence.

Looking Ahead

As Jalen Milroe embarks on his professional journey, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and significant contributions to the Alabama Crimson Tide. His decision to enter the NFL Draft marks a new beginning for both himself and the program. The Alabama community, while surprised by the announcement, stands united in support of Milroe’s future endeavors and eagerly anticipates the next chapter in the team’s illustrious history