Pat McAfee’s comparison between Jalen Milroe and Lamar Jackson is more than just hype—it’s a recognition of the raw talent and potential that Milroe possesses
While he still has a long way to go in refining his game, the foundation is there for him to develop into a special player.
If Milroe can follow Jackson’s blueprint—improving as a passer, proving doubters wrong, and landing in the right system—there’s no telling how high his ceiling could be.
Whether he reaches the same heights as Jackson remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Jalen Milroe is a name football fans should keep an eye on as he continues to grow into a potential NFL star.
Jalen Milroe is one of the most polarizing players in the 2025 NFL Draft. While his arm strength and athleticism make him an enticing prospect, concerns about his decision-making and pocket presence create uncertainty.
If he lands in the right situation with a coaching staff that can maximize his abilities, he has the potential to be a dynamic playmaker at the next level. For teams willing to take a chance, Milroe could be a hidden gem in this year’s draft.
Also Read: Jalen Milroe (Alabama’s Quarterback): Bio, Wiki, Career, Religion, Playing Style And More
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Jalen Milroe: The Most Polarizing Quarterback Prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft
A Talented but Polarizing Prospect
Jalen Milroe is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.1
The Alabama star possesses a unique blend of athleticism, arm strength, and leadership that makes him an exciting option for NFL teams.
However, his draft stock remains one of the most uncertain among quarterbacks, as scouts and analysts continue to debate his ceiling at the professional level.
There is no consensus on where Milroe will be selected in the draft. Some analysts project him as a second-round pick with the potential to sneak into the late first round, while others see him as a mid-round developmental prospect.
His pre-draft workouts, private team meetings, and interviews will be critical in determining how NFL teams view him.
Surprise…..👀 https://t.co/vfOFUhffbJ
— Jalen Milroe (@JalenMilroe) March 19, 2025
A Strong Performance at Alabama Pro Day
Milroe put on a show during Alabama’s pro day, demonstrating his speed and arm talent.
With scouts from all 32 NFL teams in attendance, he clocked an impressive 4.37-second 40-yard dash, one of the fastest times for a quarterback in recent memory.
His performance also included a series of deep throws that showcased his strong arm and ability to make big plays down the field.
When asked why he believes he should be a top draft pick, Milroe confidently stated, “There’s a lot of things other quarterbacks do well that I can do.
But there are things that I do that they can’t do. And that’s something that I’ve used as an advantage when I play the game of football.”
Jalen Milroe: Elite Athleticism Separates Him from the Pack
One of the biggest attributes that set Milroe apart from his peers is his athleticism.2
At 6’2” and 220 pounds, he possesses a rare combination of size, speed, and agility that allows him to make plays both as a passer and a runner.
His ability to escape pressure and turn broken plays into explosive gains has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s most dynamic quarterbacks.
Despite his athletic gifts, there are lingering concerns about Milroe’s passing ability. Some scouts believe he lacks the processing speed to quickly read defenses, which could be a significant hurdle at the next level.
Additionally, his accuracy and decision-making under pressure have been questioned.
While his arm strength is undeniable, his ability to consistently make tight-window throws remains a work in progress.
The Potential for Growth
One reason teams are still high on Milroe is his ability to improve. His work ethic and passion for the game suggest that he’s willing to put in the effort to refine his skills.
Over the past season, he showed flashes of growth in his pocket presence and mechanics, indicating that he’s capable of making strides in his development.
The modern NFL has increasingly embraced quarterbacks who can extend plays and threaten defenses with their legs.
Dual-threat quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Josh Allen have demonstrated that mobility can be a significant asset.
Milroe’s ability to make defenders miss and pick up chunk yardage on the ground gives him a unique edge that many traditional pocket passers lack.
Jalen Milroe: Comparisons to Other Draft Prospects
The 2025 quarterback class features several high-profile names, including Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Shedeur Sanders.3
While these quarterbacks are often seen as more polished passers, Milroe’s athleticism and playmaking ability set him apart.
Some teams may view him as a high-risk, high-reward prospect, while others may prioritize more traditional signal-callers.
NFL Teams That Could Target Milroe
Milroe’s draft positioning will depend on team needs and offensive philosophies.
Some franchises that could be interested in him include:
- Atlanta Falcons – If they seek a mobile quarterback to complement their strong run game, Milroe could be an intriguing option.
- New England Patriots – The Patriots are in desperate need of a playmaker at quarterback and may take a chance on Milroe’s upside.
- Seattle Seahawks – With Geno Smith in place but no long-term answer at QB, Milroe could be an exciting developmental pick for Seattle.
- Minnesota Vikings – If they decide to move on from Kirk Cousins, Milroe could bring a different dynamic to their offense.
The Importance of Coaching and Scheme
Milroe’s success in the NFL will heavily depend on landing in the right system with a coaching staff willing to tailor the offense to his strengths.
A team that utilizes run-pass option (RPO) schemes and designs plays that capitalize on his mobility will give him the best chance to thrive.
His development will also hinge on working with a coaching staff that can help refine his mechanics and decision-making process.
Also Read: Jalen Milroe (Football): Bio, Wiki, Age, Career, Playing Style, Height, Weight and More
Pat McAfee Compares Jalen Milroe to Lamar Jackson
A Dynamic Quarterback in the Making
The world of football has seen its fair share of electrifying dual-threat quarterbacks, but few have drawn comparisons to former MVP Lamar Jackson quite like Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.
On ‘The Pat McAfee Show,’ sports analyst Pat McAfee made headlines by likening Milroe to the Baltimore Ravens star, citing his explosive playmaking ability, elite athleticism, and potential to develop into an exceptional passer.
But is the comparison fair? Let’s break down what makes Milroe special, the similarities he shares with Jackson, and the challenges he faces in his journey to NFL stardom.
The Dual-Threat Ability That Defines Both Quarterbacks
Lamar Jackson burst onto the scene at Louisville and later in the NFL as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks of his generation.
His ability to slice through defenses with his legs while making pinpoint throws downfield made him a nightmare for opponents. Jalen Milroe possesses similar traits.
Milroe has demonstrated an uncanny ability to make defenders miss, showcasing elite speed and vision in the open field. His strong arm complements his rushing ability, making him a true dual-threat quarterback capable of leading an offense in multiple ways.
Like Jackson, Milroe forces defenses to stay disciplined, as any lapse in coverage or missed assignment could lead to a game-changing play.
McAfee’s Take on Milroe’s Potential
During his show, Pat McAfee emphasized that quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson are rare, but he believes Milroe has the talent to follow in his footsteps.
“There aren’t a whole lot of Lamars out there,” McAfee said. “Lamar Jackson has gotten better every year he has been in the NFL. He has become one of the top passers in the NFL.
However, if Milroe has the opportunity to sit behind somebody, he could develop as a tremendous passer from within the pocket like Lamar.”
McAfee highlighted Milroe’s combination of strength, elusiveness, and speed, arguing that Alabama should focus on maximizing his potential by keeping the ball in his hands as much as possible while he continues to refine his passing game.
Jalen Milroe: The Passing Criticism
A Familiar Story
Despite his raw talent, Milroe has faced skepticism about his passing ability—something Lamar Jackson also encountered entering the NFL.
Many analysts doubted Jackson’s ability to thrive as a pocket passer, with some even suggesting a position switch to wide receiver. Similarly, Milroe has faced discussions about potentially playing running back due to his elite athleticism.
Jackson, however, silenced critics by improving as a passer year after year, ultimately winning the NFL MVP award and leading one of the most efficient offenses in the league.
If Milroe follows a similar trajectory, he could prove doubters wrong and establish himself as a legitimate starting quarterback at the professional level.
Development Under the Right System
One of the biggest keys to Milroe’s success will be his development within the right offensive system.
Jackson found success in Baltimore under head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who built a scheme tailored to his strengths.
Alabama’s coaching staff will need to do the same for Milroe, ensuring he is given opportunities to grow as a passer while still utilizing his running ability to keep defenses on edge.
If Milroe transitions to the NFL, his landing spot will play a crucial role in his development. A team willing to cater to his strengths, rather than force him into a rigid system, will provide the best chance for him to flourish, just as Baltimore did for Jackson.
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Strengths That Set Milroe Apart
While the Jackson comparison is compelling, Milroe has unique qualities that make him stand out. His physicality is one of his biggest assets.
Unlike most quarterbacks, he has a running style that blends power and agility, making him difficult to bring down.
This toughness allows him to absorb hits and extend plays, an invaluable trait in today’s fast-paced game.
Additionally, Milroe’s arm strength is undeniable. He can launch deep passes with ease, putting pressure on opposing defenses to respect the vertical threat.
As he refines his accuracy and decision-making, his passing ability could become as feared as his running.
Overcoming Challenges on the Road to the NFL
Milroe’s path to NFL stardom won’t be without obstacles. Developing consistent accuracy, reading defenses at an elite level, and making quick decisions under pressure are all areas that require improvement.
Lamar Jackson faced similar hurdles early in his career but overcame them through relentless work and strong coaching support.
Another challenge is overcoming public perception. The NFL has historically been hesitant to embrace dual-threat quarterbacks, often pressuring them to change positions or conform to traditional pocket-passing roles.
However, with players like Jackson, Jalen Hurts, and Josh Allen thriving in hybrid roles, Milroe has a stronger case than ever to be developed as a true quarterback.
Also Read: Jalen Milroe’s A-Day Frustration: Inside the $1.6M NIL-valued Player’s Mind
