Speculations of where Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe will be taken in this year’s draft have risen to an all-time high after some big news broke on X, the social media site formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday afternoon.
Dan Brugler, an NFL Draft analyst for The Athletic, posted to X that Milroe had accepted an invitation to attend the April 24-26 NFL Draft.
Typically, the NFL is selective about who it invites to the draft, especially in a year in which the league has reportedly limited invitations to just eight to 10 players it considers to be “top picks.” Invitations are generally reserved for prospects that are expected to be selected early, often in the first round, to avoid an awkward scenario of a player not hearing his name on the first day. Milroe receiving an invitation doesn’t guarantee that he is a first-rounder, but it does imply that he is at least in the conversation to be selected in the first two rounds.
Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback who spent the past two seasons as Alabama’s starter, has received mixed reviews from critics on his future as an NFL quarterback. His physical gifts are indisputable, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 217 pounds, he combines elite speed (clocking an unofficial 4.37-second 40-yard dash at Alabama’s Pro Day), a powerful arm, and dynamic rushing ability.
In 2024, he threw for 2,844 yards and 16 touchdowns while adding 726 rushing yards and 20 scores, showcasing his ability to impact games both through the air and on the ground. However, his inconsistency as a passer, particularly on shorter and intermediate routes, has raised concerns about his readiness for the NFL. His 11 interceptions last season and poor decision-making raise the question of whether he needs more time to develop.
The Pittsburgh Steelers, who possess the No. 21 overall pick, have shown significant interest in possibly drafting Milroe. His ability to make explosive plays and his comparisons to quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts make him an attractive option for a team like Pittsburgh. However, his struggles with accuracy and pocket presence suggest he might need a year or two sitting behind a veteran quarterback to fine-tune his skills.
Milroe’s draft projection may be uncertain, but one thing we know is that all eyes will be on him in Green Bay on April 24-26 to see if he gets selected early, or if we have another awkward moment of an athlete waiting forever to hear his name being called.
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