Jalen Milroe is the quarterback, and Kalen DeBoer made it very evident as Alabama football’s spring practice continues. His remarks regarding the quarterback position point to a determined future strategy.
But they beg concerns about the remainder of the depth chart.
In his first season as Nick Saban’s replacement, DeBoer plans to proceed with Milroe. After leading the Crimson Tide to the College Football Playoffs the previous season, the redshirt sophomore is the current starter. That remains unchanged. He’s still at the front of the group.
The top returning Heisman Trophy vote-getter from the previous season is the subject of a lot of talk. In 12 games, Milroe completed 65.8% of his passes for 2,834 yards and 23 touchdowns with just six interceptions.
While other excellent signal-callers are breathing down his neck, DeBoer sees no reason why he cannot improve any further this autumn.
In 2024, if nothing unexpected happens, Milroe will be the starting quarterback once more.
What is left behind? Dylan Lonergan and Ty Simpson? Austin Mack, what about him?
It feels like an inevitable exodus at Alabama.
Obviously, only one quarterback can start at a time. After this year, Milroe will probably declare for the NFL Draft, which will make room for his replacement, assuming they are willing to wait that long.
“If” is the crucial term.
This autumn, Ty Simpson will be a redshirt sophomore. During the Crimson Tide’s College Football Playoff run, the former five-star recruit’s playing time versus USF was one of the most significant moments.
Reserving his spot as a redshirt freshman is Dylan Lonergan, a four-star prospect in the Class of 2023. His route to playing time is less obvious, therefore he has lots of time to grow.
Nevertheless, Austin Mack is directly behind him. He was a four-star recruit when DeBoer brought him to Tuscaloosa, and he was by far the tallest signal-caller in the class when he arrived.
The likelihood that all four of these players will decide to remain on the packed roster is low.
Mack recently moved south. Starting is Milroe. They are here to stay.
What then becomes of Simpson and Lonergan?
In April, we shall find out when the following transfer portal window opens.
