Jalen Milroe: From Tompkins High School to Alabama Crimson Tide Stardom

Jalen Milroe, the talented quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide, has a storied athletic career that began at Tompkins High School in Katy, Texas. Born on December 13, 2002, Milroe's high school years were marked by impressive performances that set the stage for his future success.

During his junior year at Tompkins High School, Milroe threw for an impressive 2,689 yards and 29 touchdowns, while also rushing for 378 yards and eight additional touchdowns. In his senior year, he passed for 1,136 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading his team to a 9-0 record in 2020. Over his high school career, Milroe accumulated 3,825 passing yards, 559 rushing yards, and 53 total touchdowns, guiding Tompkins to over 30 wins in three seasons.

Early Commitment and Transition to Alabama

Initially committed to the University of Texas, Milroe later decided to switch to the University of Alabama. This decision would prove pivotal in his development as a quarterback. As a freshman at Alabama, Milroe served as the backup to sophomore quarterback Bryce Young, appearing in four games and completing three passes for 41 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for 57 yards on 15 carries. He was redshirted during the 2021 season.

Rise to Prominence at Alabama

Milroe's breakthrough came in the 2022 season when he took over as the primary backup after Bryce Young suffered a shoulder injury. He made his first career start against Texas A&M, completing 12-of-19 passes for 111 yards and three touchdowns, along with 81 yards on the ground in a 24-20 victory. This performance showcased his potential and set the stage for his future as the Crimson Tide's quarterback.

In the 2023 season, with Bryce Young's departure, Milroe competed with Ty Simpson and Tyler Buchner for the starting quarterback role. He was eventually named the starter and made a significant impact, earning SEC co-offensive player of the week honors in the season opener against Middle Tennessee State. Milroe's performance included 194 passing yards, three touchdowns, and an additional 48 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in a 56-7 victory.

Challenges and Triumphs

Despite facing challenges, including a demotion after a loss to Texas, Milroe was reinstated as the starter and led Alabama to a 12-1 record, including an SEC Championship. He was named the MVP of the SEC Championship Game after passing for two touchdowns and 192 yards in a 27-24 victory over No. 1 Georgia. Milroe's season was highlighted by his versatility, with 23 passing touchdowns, 2,718 passing yards, six interceptions, and twelve rushing touchdowns.

Milroe's athleticism and speed have been notable, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.64 seconds and a top speed of 22 miles per hour, making him one of the fastest players on the team.

Awards and Recognition

For his outstanding performance, Milroe was recognized with several awards and nominations. He was named a finalist for the Manning Award, the Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award, and the Davey O'Brien Award. Additionally, he was selected as a semifinalist for the Maxwell Award and earned second-team All-SEC recognition from the Associated Press.