Call him a polarizing prospect but is Alabama star QB Jalen Milroe ready for the NFL? That’s the question that’s been bugging analysts after his inconsistent performance in the last few games. After leading the Crimson Tide to an impressive win over Georgia in Week 5, the fall to Vanderbilt and Tennessee made others wonder if he’s really ready for the 2025 NFL Draft. 

In a new YouTube episode on Todd McShay on October 30, Todd McShay was joined by Merrimack College coach Steve Muench, who discussed Jalen Milroe’s NFL prospects. McShay lauded the Bama signal caller as having “more intriguing upsides” than several elite QBs, including Shedeur Sanders. Still, there’s a but. He added, “But with Jalen, the ups and downs are hard to watch… Jalen could get in the NFL and overcome what he’s dealing with in terms of not being comfortable in the pocket, footwork not being consistent.”

This season, Jalen Milroe has faced severe ups and downs. He recorded 1,937 yards and 13 touchdowns and added 380 rushing yards and 12 TDs on the ground through eight games. Despite his dual-threat ability, McShay said, “Jalen Milroe is so far from being polished. He just needs more work.” 

Even if he didn’t enter the 2025 NFL Draft, it’s still a win for him, as McShay added, “I would love Jalen Milroe to come back for another year… Everyone in Tuscaloosa loves this guy. Hardworking, good dude, cares about his teammates, has matured as a passer, has matured as a leader. I want to see another year of it.” A horde of Bama fans would agree to that! Still, he remains a hot NFL prospect. 

Should Jalen Milroe stay back in Alabama or head to the NFL?

Following the 24-17 loss to Tennessee after Jalen Milroe recorded two interceptions and suffered three sacks, his NFL draft stock saw a dip in PFF’s first-round mock draft. Now, Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders are the No. 1 and 2 QBs off the board, respectively. But he’s still the top 3 QB on the list as a favorite to land with the Las Vegas Raiders. 

In Athlon Sports’ mock draft, however, Jalen Milroe isn’t among the first-round QBs. McShay isn’t the only one who feels Milroe should return to Alabama. But either way looks good for him, as Dane Brugler noted, “If he declares for the 2025 draft, would Milroe still have a chance at the first round? Of course… Could he benefit by going back to school? There’s no doubt, and the Tennessee tape is a reminder of that.” What are your thoughts about Jalen Milroe’s football future?