Huge Loss: Alabama QB Announces Sudden Departure, Shaking the Crimson Tide
In a shocking turn of events that has rocked the college football world, Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving a massive void in one of the sport’s most storied programs. The announcement, made public in early January 2025, stunned fans, teammates, and analysts alike, many of whom expected Milroe to return for another season after leading Alabama through a turbulent yet competitive campaign.
This sudden departure not only ends Milroe’s collegiate chapter but also throws Alabama’s quarterback depth chart into chaos. The ripple effects of this decision are already being felt throughout Tuscaloosa, where coaches are now left scrambling to stabilize an offense that relied heavily on Milroe’s dual-threat capabilities.
A Dynamic Talent Bows Out
Jalen Milroe’s journey at Alabama was nothing short of electrifying. Known for his elite athleticism, cannon arm, and breakaway speed, Milroe stepped into the starting role following the departure of Bryce Young to the NFL. His 2024 season was marked by moments of brilliance, including game-winning drives, long rushing touchdowns, and the leadership that Crimson Tide fans have come to expect from their signal-callers.
While his play wasn’t without flaws—turnovers and consistency in the passing game remained issues—Milroe’s raw talent was undeniable. He finished the 2024 season with over 3,200 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and over 700 rushing yards, solidifying his reputation as one of college football’s most exciting players.
Milroe took to social media to share a heartfelt farewell to the Alabama community:
> “To my teammates, coaches, and the entire Alabama family—thank you for believing in me. It’s been an honor to wear the Crimson jersey and compete at the highest level. After long talks with my family and coaches, I’ve decided to declare for the NFL Draft. I’m ready for the next chapter.”
A Quarterback Exodus
Milroe’s announcement wasn’t the only blow to Alabama’s quarterback room. Just weeks earlier, Dylan Lonergan, a highly-touted redshirt freshman, announced his decision to enter the transfer portal. By mid-December, he had committed to Boston College, seeking more playing time and a fresh start.
Lonergan’s departure came as a surprise to many who viewed him as the likely No. 2 behind Milroe, and possibly the future face of Alabama’s offense. A four-star recruit from Georgia, Lonergan had impressed in spring practices and was known for his accuracy and poise in the pocket. Losing both Milroe and Lonergan within a month has effectively stripped Alabama of two quarterbacks expected to play major roles in 2025.
Who’s Left?
With Milroe off to the NFL and Lonergan in the ACC, the spotlight now turns to a group of young, largely untested quarterbacks. The top contenders for the starting job are:
Ty Simpson: A redshirt sophomore with a solid understanding of the offense. Simpson has seen limited action but possesses a strong arm and high football IQ. He was once viewed as the future before Milroe’s emergence.
Austin Mack: A true freshman and four-star recruit from California. Mack has immense potential but is still raw, having only arrived on campus months ago. It’s unclear how quickly he’ll adjust to the speed and complexity of the SEC.
Keelon Russell: A five-star recruit from the Class of 2025 who committed to Alabama in July. Russell is considered one of the most complete quarterback prospects in the nation, known for his composure, mobility, and accuracy. His early enrollment means he’ll participate in spring practices, giving him a legitimate shot to compete for the starting role right away.
Coaching Adjustments
The pressure now falls on new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, who was brought in to revamp the Tide’s offense after Bill O’Brien’s departure. Grubb, known for his work at Washington and his quarterback-friendly schemes, will need to quickly evaluate and develop his new crop of signal-callers. His ability to tailor the offense to the strengths of whoever wins the job will be crucial in determining Alabama’s success in 2025.
Grubb addressed the media following Milroe’s announcement:
> “Jalen is a tremendous athlete and a great leader. We wish him nothing but the best at the next level. As for our current room, we’ve got talented guys ready to step up, and I’m excited to get to work with them.”
The Road Ahead
This offseason will be one of the most pivotal in recent Alabama history. While the Crimson Tide remain loaded at skill positions and boast a top-3 recruiting class, the uncertainty at quarterback is a major concern. Alabama fans have become accustomed to excellence at the position, with a lineage that includes Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, Bryce Young, and now Milroe. Finding the next name in that elite group is the program’s top priority.
There’s also a growing belief that Alabama might explore the transfer portal for a veteran quarterback to bridge the gap while their younger players develop. While no names have been officially linked to the Tide yet, expect the coaching staff to keep close tabs on portal activity in the coming weeks.
Legacy of Jalen Milroe
Regardless of what comes next, Jalen Milroe’s legacy at Alabama is secure. He stepped in during a time of transition, competed with heart, and carried the Tide through ups and downs. He wasn’t perfect, but he was fearless, and that quality endeared him to fans across the country.
As he prepares for the NFL Combine and begins his journey toward the pros, Milroe leaves behind a program that’s uncertain, yes—but still brimming with talent and potential.
Final Thoughts
Alabama football is no stranger to adversity, and losing a starting quarterback just months before spring workouts would derail most programs. But if history has shown us anything, it’s that Alabama doesn’t rebuild—they reload.
Still, this is a huge loss, and the suddenness of Milroe’s departure underscores just how volatile the college football landscape has become in the age of NIL, the transfer portal, and early draft declarations.
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