When you think of dual-threat quarterbacks, two names inevitably come to mind: Jalen Milroe and Jalen Hurts. With their identical first names, both hailing from Texas, and their strikingly similar skill sets, comparisons between the two are hard to avoid. But for Milroe, these comparisons are more than just surface-level; they represent a deep connection that is both professional and personal.
Milroe’s Journey at Alabama
Milroe’s time at Alabama has been nothing short of eventful. As the starting quarterback for the Crimson Tide, he amassed an impressive 6,935 total yards and 71 total touchdowns over the past two seasons. His performance showcased his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. However, it wasn’t without its challenges. In a junior season that had its ups and downs, Milroe rushed for 726 yards and 20 touchdowns but struggled as a passer, throwing for 2,844 yards with 16 touchdowns against 11 interceptions in 2024.
Despite the scrutiny, Milroe remains undeterred. Currently ranked No. 5 on ESPN icon Mel Kiper Jr.’s list of 2025 quarterbacks, he is determined to prove his worth as he prepares for the upcoming NFL Draft.
Learning from a Mentor
One of the most significant influences in Milroe’s life has been Hurts, who has become a mentor to him. During a recent appearance on ESPN’s SportsCenter, Milroe opened up about their “authentic” relationship. “Authentic, No. 1, and it’s real. I think that’s what I love so much, that there’s someone that’s able to pour into you that had experience of playing quarterback at a very high level in college and then branching off and going to the NFL. He’s definitely inspiring,” Milroe shared.
Milroe emphasized the importance of having someone like Hurts to lean on during this critical phase of his career. “But he’s been a key resource for me being able to be around somebody, and talk to somebody, that’s been in the process and is somewhere where I’m aspiring to go. It’s definitely exciting now to take the knowledge that I’ve gained through my career and put it into this place moving forward,” he said.
Comparing Careers: Milroe vs. Hurts
While Milroe is carving out his path, Hurts has already established himself as a star in the NFL. Hurts’ collegiate career at Alabama saw him produce 7,602 yards of total offense and 71 touchdowns over three seasons. He was the starting quarterback for his first two years before facing a pivotal moment in the 2018 College Football Playoff national championship game, where he was benched at halftime. That experience could have derailed many players, but Hurts turned it into an opportunity, transferring to Oklahoma and becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2019.
Milroe hopes to emulate Hurts’ success in the NFL. With the 2025 NFL Draft looming in late April, he is eager to showcase his skills and make a lasting impression on scouts and teams alike.
Facing Criticism with Confidence
Despite the accolades and potential, Milroe’s draft stock has faced its share of controversy. Critics point to his inconsistent passing performance as a concern, especially after a junior season that left some wondering if he could take the next step. However, Milroe remains focused on improving and proving his doubters wrong.
“Every player has their critics, but I know what I can do,” Milroe stated confidently. “I’m ready to show everyone that I can be a top quarterback in this league.”
Style on and off the Field
Beyond the stats and gameplay, another aspect that connects Milroe and Hurts is their sense of style. During his SportsCenter appearance, Milroe was asked about who has the better fashion sense. With a laugh, he responded, “Ok, ok, between me and Hurts, huh? Look, (Hurts) be putting it on, but I can put it on too now. Look, suits, classic clothing, casual, I can put that on, but we’re still competing. I think I’m up there with him.”
This light-hearted competition highlights a fun side of both players, showing that they are not just focused on football but also on how they present themselves to the world.
Looking Ahead
As Milroe prepares for the next chapter of his football journey, he carries with him the lessons learned from Hurts and his own experiences at Alabama. The road to the NFL is filled with challenges, but with a mentor like Hurts guiding him, Milroe is ready to tackle whatever comes his way.
With the NFL Draft on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Milroe’s career unfolds. Will he follow in Hurts’ footsteps and make a significant impact at the professional level? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the future of this talented quarterback is bright.
