Jalen Milroe the Rams Future Quarterback?

Jalen Milroe runs 40 yards in 4.37 seconds at Alabama’s Pro Day 

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, quarterback Jalen Milroe from Alabama has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class. With his rare combination of elite athleticism, a powerful arm, and a dual-threat playstyle, Milroe has drawn attention from multiple NFL teams, including the Los Angeles Rams. With Matthew Stafford aging and the Rams potentially looking for a long-term solution at the quarterback position, speculation has grown about whether Milroe could be the heir apparent in Los Angeles. This article explores Milroe’s strengths, weaknesses, recent performances, and fit with the Rams to determine if he could indeed be their future at the position.

Jalen Milroe’s Background and College Career

Jalen Milroe, a four-star recruit out of Tompkins High School in Katy, Texas, arrived at Alabama in 2021 with a reputation as an explosive athlete. Choosing Alabama over offers from powerhouses like Texas, Florida, and Oregon, Milroe spent his first two seasons as a backup, notably behind Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young. It wasn’t until 2023 that Milroe took over as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, showcasing his dynamic skill set over two seasons as the full-time signal-caller.

In his college career, Milroe amassed 6,016 passing yards, 45 touchdowns, and 20 interceptions, while adding 1,577 rushing yards and 33 touchdowns on the ground. His final season in 2024 saw him throw for 2,844 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions, alongside 531 rushing yards and 12 scores. While his numbers don’t scream “polished passer” compared to peers like Miami’s Cam Ward or Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, Milroe’s athleticism and playmaking ability set him apart as a unique prospect.

Milroe’s defining traits include his exceptional speed—he clocked an unofficial 4.37-second 40-yard dash at Alabama’s Pro Day on March 19, 2025—and a cannon of an arm that can stretch defenses vertically. His ability to escape pressure and turn broken plays into big gains makes him a quintessential dual-threat quarterback, drawing comparisons to players like Jalen Hurts, Lamar Jackson, and Anthony Richardson.

The Rams’ Quarterback Situation

The Los Angeles Rams currently have Matthew Stafford under center, a Super Bowl-winning veteran who remains one of the league’s premier passers when healthy. At 37 years old, however, Stafford’s durability has become a concern. Injuries have hampered him in recent seasons, and while he opted to stay with the Rams for 2025 rather than exploring trade offers, his long-term future remains uncertain.

Head coach Sean McVay has built an offensive system that thrives on precision, timing, and a quarterback’s ability to read defenses pre- and post-snap. Stafford has excelled in this scheme, but it’s worth noting that McVay has historically favored pocket passers over mobile quarterbacks. That said, the NFL’s evolving landscape—where dual-threat quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson dominate—could push McVay to adapt his philosophy for a player like Milroe.

Milroe’s Pro Day Performance and Draft Stock

Milroe’s stock has fluctuated throughout the pre-draft process, with evaluators praising his physical tools while questioning his passing consistency. His performance at Alabama’s Pro Day on March 19, 2025, turned heads and reignited debates about his potential. Milroe completed 45 of 52 passes in front of representatives from all 32 NFL teams, displaying his arm strength and athleticism. His 4.37-second 40-yard dash time—a mark that would have ranked among the fastest at the NFL Combine—underscored his elite speed, while his throwing session showed improvement in his mechanics, though some scouts noted lingering concerns about his footwork and accuracy on shorter, timing-based throws.

There's also something about Jalen Milroe, I'm not willing to bet against him. Would be a bit of a far cry from the type of QB McVay targets but the guy has maybe the strongest arm in the draft, elite athleticism and if he sat behind Stafford and worked with McVay, he could be a…

— JAKE ELLENBOGEN (@JKBOGEN) March 19, 2025

Prior to Pro Day, Milroe met with the Rams, sparking speculation about their interest. Posts on X from fans and analysts reflect mixed opinions. One user noted, “There’s something about Jalen Milroe, I’m not willing to bet against him… if he sat behind Stafford and worked with McVay, he could be a [star],” while another expressed skepticism, stating, “None of his passes look comfortable, almost 0 timing or placement throws. Too many other buildable QBs in this draft to go with him.”

Analysts project Milroe as a second or third-round pick, though his athletic upside could push him into the late first round if a team falls in love with his potential. For the Rams, who hold the 26th overall pick in the 2025 draft, trading down and selecting Milroe in the second round could be a viable strategy.

Jalen Milroe’s Draft Profile

Height: 6’2”
Weight: 225 lbs
Position: Quarterback
College: Alabama
Class: Redshirt Junior
Projected Draft Range: Late 1st Round to Early 3rd Round

Strengths:

• Arm Talent: Milroe boasts a rocket arm capable of making every throw on the field. His deep-ball accuracy is among the best in the class, with a natural ability to layer passes over defenders.
• Athleticism: His 4.37-second 40-yard dash and explosive lower-body power make him a legitimate threat as a runner, both on designed plays and when improvising.
• Toughness: Milroe isn’t afraid to take hits, often lowering his shoulder to gain extra yards. He played through minor injuries in 2024, showcasing resilience.
• Leadership: Teammates and coaches rave about his work ethic and ability to rally the huddle, a trait honed under Nick Saban and later Kalen DeBoer at Alabama.

Weaknesses:

• Accuracy: Milroe’s completion percentage hovered around 62% in 2024, with struggles on short-to-intermediate throws. His 30.1% uncatchable pass rate in the middle of the field (per PFF) highlights a need for refinement.
• Decision-Making: He occasionally locks onto his first read or forces throws into coverage, leading to turnovers. His 20 career interceptions reflect a gunslinger mentality that needs taming.
• Mechanics: Inconsistent footwork and a tendency to rely on arm strength rather than proper base can lead to erratic throws, especially under pressure.

NFL Comparison: Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts) – Like Richardson, Milroe is a physically gifted quarterback with elite running ability and a big arm, but he’ll need time to develop as a passer to reach his full potential.

Best Fit: Teams with a creative offensive coordinator and a veteran quarterback to mentor him, allowing Milroe to sit and learn before taking the reins.

Strengths: What Milroe Brings to the Rams

1. Elite Athleticism: Milroe’s speed and agility make him a nightmare for defenses. His 4.37-second dash places him in rare company alongside Michael Vick and Lamar Jackson, giving the Rams a weapon they’ve never had under McVay. His ability to extend plays and gash defenses on designed runs or scrambles could add a new dimension to the offense.
2. Big-Play Arm: Milroe’s arm strength is undeniable. He can push the ball downfield with ease, pairing well with receivers like Devante Adams, Tutu Atwell, and Puka Nacua, who thrive on deep routes and contested catches. His quick release and velocity could stretch defenses vertically, opening up McVay’s playbook.
3. Upside Potential: At 22 years old, Milroe is a developmental prospect with a high ceiling. Sitting behind Stafford for a year or two could allow him to refine his skills under McVay’s tutelage, potentially molding him into a franchise quarterback.

Weaknesses: Challenges for Milroe and the Rams

1. Passing Inconsistency: Milroe’s college tape reveals struggles with accuracy, particularly on intermediate and short throws that require touch and timing—hallmarks of McVay’s system. His 30.1% uncatchable pass rate in the middle of the field (per Pro Football Focus) raises red flags for a scheme that demands precision.
2. Pocket Presence: While Milroe excels outside the pocket, he often takes unnecessary sacks and struggles to navigate pressure while keeping his eyes downfield. This contrasts with Stafford’s pocket poise, and McVay may need to adjust his offense to accommodate Milroe’s tendencies.
3. Fit with McVay’s System: McVay’s offense has historically relied on quarterbacks who can dissect defenses from the pocket. Milroe’s raw passing skills and reliance on athleticism might require a philosophical shift, which could be a hurdle for a coach set in his ways.

Could Milroe Succeed with the Rams?

The question of whether Milroe could be the Rams’ future quarterback hinges on two factors: development and adaptability. If the Rams draft Milroe, the ideal scenario would involve him sitting behind Stafford for at least one season, learning the nuances of McVay’s system while refining his footwork and decision-making. Former NFL quarterback Chase Daniel echoed this sentiment, stating, “If Milroe can get into the right system with the right coaches, he can thrive in the NFL.”

The Rams’ offensive infrastructure with Adams, Nacua, and running back Kyren Williams—could ease Milroe’s transition, providing him with reliable targets and a strong running game to lean on. McVay’s creativity as a play-caller could also unlock Milroe’s dual-threat potential, incorporating more read-option plays, designed runs, and play-action bootlegs to maximize his strengths.

However, the Rams would need patience. Milroe isn’t a plug-and-play starter like Ward or Sanders. His development could take two to three years, and if Stafford retires or declines sharply before Milroe is ready, the team might face a rocky transition period.

Comparing Milroe to Other Options

The 2025 quarterback class offers alternatives that might better suit the Rams’ immediate needs. Miami’s Cam Ward, with his polished passing and pocket presence, aligns more closely with McVay’s preferences and could step in sooner. Ole Miss’ Jaxson Dart offers a blend of mobility and accuracy, while Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders brings poise and precision. Milroe’s rawness sets him apart, but it also makes him a riskier pick for a team that may not want to overhaul its offensive identity.

Is Milroe the Answer?

Jalen Milroe possesses the physical tools and intangibles to become an NFL star, but his fit with the Los Angeles Rams is far from a slam dunk. His elite athleticism and arm strength make him an enticing long-term project, especially if he can learn behind Matthew Stafford and adapt to Sean McVay’s system. However, his unpolished passing skills and the potential mismatch with McVay’s traditional approach raise legitimate doubts.

For Milroe to be the Rams’ future quarterback, the team would need to commit to a patient development plan and possibly tweak its offensive philosophy—a tall order for a franchise accustomed to competing now. While Milroe’s Pro Day performance and meetings with the Rams suggest interest, other quarterback prospects might offer a safer, more immediate fit. As the draft nears on April 24, 2025, the Rams must weigh Milroe’s tantalizing upside against the challenges of molding him into their next franchise leader. For now, the question remains open: could Jalen Milroe be the future in Los Angeles? Only time—and perhaps a draft-day decision—will tell.

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