Jalen Milroe Reflects After Alabama’s ReliaQuest Bowl Loss: A Season of Challenges, Growth, and Uncertainty
The Alabama Crimson Tide closed out their 2024 season with a tough 19-13 loss to the Michigan Wolverines in the ReliaQuest Bowl. The game, marked by turnovers and missed opportunities, could potentially be the final chapter in the college career of starting quarterback Jalen Milroe. The junior signal-caller struggled throughout the game, leaving fans and analysts speculating about his next move.
Milroe’s statline told the story of a challenging day: 16-for-32 passing for 192 yards, one touchdown, one interception, two fumbles, and just seven rushing yards. Despite his struggles, Milroe nearly led the Tide to a game-winning drive in the final minutes before coming up short.
A Decision Looms for Milroe
Speculation about Milroe’s future has been swirling for weeks. As a junior, he’s eligible to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, but the decision remains uncertain. When asked about his plans after the game, Milroe was noncommittal.
“Right now, I’m just trying to soak up this moment today and not really try to focus on any future endeavors,” Milroe said.
His words reflected the introspection and emotion of a player who has faced both triumphs and challenges during his time in Tuscaloosa.
A Season of Growth Under New Leadership
This season marked a period of adjustment for Milroe and the entire Crimson Tide program as Kalen DeBoer took over as head coach following Nick Saban’s legendary tenure. Many believed Milroe might leave the program after the coaching change, but instead, he embraced the transition and developed a strong relationship with DeBoer.
“Football is a beautiful vehicle to allow you to meet a lot of great people. One thing that was for certain was meeting Coach DeBoer,” Milroe said. “Initially, there was hardship with the staff change, and it became something really good in meeting him.”
Milroe praised DeBoer for his mentorship throughout the season.
“I love Coach DeBoer. It’s been an honor to be around him and learn so much football being around him,” Milroe said. “I constantly met with him throughout the season, just trying to build and trying to get better each and every day. I love and appreciate him for all that he’s done and how much he’s poured into me.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Reflecting on his time as Alabama’s starting quarterback, Milroe spoke about the honor of wearing the iconic crimson jersey and leading one of college football’s most storied programs.
“It means a lot. I put everything on the line. There were many hardships along the way, a lot of doubt,” Milroe said. “One thing’s for certain is that I remained faithful. I met a lot of great people along the way. It’s truly an honor to wear the script ‘A’ each and every Saturday, win or loss. I don’t take it lightly at all. It’s been an amazing journey.”
Looking Ahead
If Milroe chooses to return to Alabama for his senior season, he will undoubtedly be one of the top quarterbacks in college football. However, his starting job won’t be guaranteed. The Tide recently signed five-star quarterback Keelon Rusell, who is expected to push for playing time. The competition could add another layer to Milroe’s decision-making process.
For now, the quarterback’s future remains undecided, but his gratitude for the journey and the relationships he’s built along the way is clear. Whether in Tuscaloosa or at the next level, Jalen Milroe’s story is far from over.
