Jalen Milroe, the quarterback for Alabama, has set his transfer replacement at $230 million.

Jalen Milroe, the quarterback for Alabama, has set his transfer replacement at $230 million.

 

As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, the spotlight is on Alabama’s dynamic quarterback, Jalen Milroe, with increasing speculation that he could be the next player to take the helm of an NFL franchise in need of a quarterback. Milroe, whose college career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, is being predicted by many analysts to potentially replace a controversial $230 million quarterback, a reference to the ongoing saga of Cleveland Browns signal-caller Deshaun Watson.

Watson, who was traded to the Browns in 2022 for a record-setting deal worth $230 million in fully guaranteed money, has faced a tumultuous tenure in Cleveland. Between his legal issues, inconsistent play on the field, and inability to live up to the massive expectations that came with his contract, Watson’s future in Cleveland has been called into question. Many within the football world are now turning their attention to potential replacements, and some believe Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling, might be the answer.

### The Case for Jalen Milroe

Jalen Milroe has been the starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide, and his impressive skill set has garnered significant attention. Milroe is known for his strong arm, quick release, and explosive athleticism. What sets him apart is his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, a dual-threat style that has become increasingly coveted in the NFL. His ability to extend plays and evade pressure in the pocket makes him a potential game-changer at the next level.

During his time at Alabama, Milroe showed flashes of brilliance, including several standout performances that highlighted his leadership and playmaking ability. Although his consistency remains a question, his development under head coach Nick Saban has placed him in the conversation as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Many scouts believe that with the right development at the next level, Milroe could become one of the league’s top quarterbacks, especially in a league that increasingly favors mobile, versatile signal-callers.

### Milroe vs. Watson: A New Era in Cleveland?

For the Cleveland Browns, the decision to move on from Deshaun Watson is becoming more and more likely as the franchise seeks stability at the quarterback position. While Watson was once considered one of the league’s elite quarterbacks, his past legal troubles, combined with his underwhelming play in Cleveland, have left the team and fans frustrated.

The Browns’ front office has been on record stating that they are committed to Watson for the time being, but it’s clear that the organization cannot afford to ignore potential alternatives, especially if the team doesn’t show progress in the coming seasons. Enter Jalen Milroe.

While Milroe is still in the early stages of his career at Alabama, his upside has many thinking that he could be the fresh face the Browns need. Given Milroe’s mobility and ability to make plays on the fly, he could bring an entirely different dynamic to the Browns’ offense compared to Watson’s traditional pocket-passing style.

### NFL Draft Implications

If Milroe declares for the NFL draft in 2025, he could be one of the top quarterbacks available, depending on how he continues to develop in the final stages of his college career. Many analysts have already predicted that Milroe could be selected in the first round, with teams looking to add a mobile quarterback who can stretch the field with both his legs and arm.

For the Browns, the timing could align perfectly with their desire for a change. If Milroe continues to impress at Alabama, Cleveland might find itself in a position to draft him and potentially groom him as the successor to Watson. However, the decision to select Milroe would depend on several factors, including how Watson’s contract situation plays out and whether the Browns feel they can move on from him.

### Conclusion

Jalen Milroe is quickly becoming a name to watch, not just in college football, but also in the NFL. While it’s too early to say whether he will replace Deshaun Watson in Cleveland, Milroe’s potential to be a franchise quarterback has many speculating about his future. His dual-threat capabilities, strong arm, and ability to make plays in the clutch make him an intriguing option for any NFL team, and as Watson’s time in Cleveland continues to be marred by controversy, Milroe could be the fresh start that the Browns need. Time will tell, but all eyes are on Milroe as he continues to develop and make his case for the NFL.