ESPN recently made an unexpected prediction regarding the future quarterback situation at the University of Alabama, suggesting that Jalen Milroe’s successor could emerge from a pool of talented freshmen rather than the more experienced players on the roster. While Milroe has shown flashes of his potential as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback, speculation about who will replace him has intensified, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Alabama’s quarterback depth and the growing importance of the position in college football.
Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, entered Alabama with high expectations. His athleticism and strong arm have made him a dangerous weapon on the field, but there have been times when his consistency and decision-making have raised concerns. Throughout the 2024 season, there were moments where Milroe’s growth as a passer seemed to plateau, leading to speculation about whether he could lead Alabama back to national championship contention. With the Crimson Tide’s storied history of elite quarterbacks, the pressure for Milroe to perform at a high level has been substantial.
As Milroe enters his final year of eligibility in 2025, the search for his successor is already underway. ESPN’s prediction has caught many by surprise, as it suggests that Alabama’s next starting quarterback might not come from the current depth chart of upperclassmen, but rather from the highly-touted freshmen in the program. This prediction hinges on the potential development of players like Dylan Lonergan and Eli Holstein, two blue-chip recruits who joined the Crimson Tide in the 2024 class.
Lonergan, a 6-foot-2, 205-pound quarterback from Georgia, brings a strong arm, poise in the pocket, and an ability to make all the throws required at the collegiate level. Holstein, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 220 pounds, has a powerful arm and exceptional physical tools that remind many of previous Alabama quarterbacks who went on to play in the NFL. Both quarterbacks are highly regarded, and their combination of talent and the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff led by Nick Saban could position them to make an immediate impact, even if they need some time to develop before taking the reins.
The prediction from ESPN suggests that Alabama’s coaching staff might opt for a fresh start, prioritizing the development of one of these freshmen over the experience of players like Ty Simpson, who has shown promise in limited action. Simpson, a 5-star recruit from the 2023 class, has been considered one of the top quarterbacks in the nation but has struggled to win over the coaching staff as a reliable starter. This competition will likely intensify in the coming year, but the belief that Alabama could turn to a freshman quarterback speaks to the confidence the program has in its young talent.
Nick Saban, known for his ability to develop top-tier talent and his penchant for adjusting to the changing landscape of college football, might find that the combination of Lonergan’s composure and Holstein’s physicality will be the perfect fit for Alabama’s offense. With a talented supporting cast around them, including an elite offensive line and a deep pool of wide receivers, the next Alabama quarterback could be primed to lead the Crimson Tide back to prominence.
Ultimately, while Milroe’s tenure has been marked by some ups and downs, Alabama’s future at quarterback looks promising, with ESPN’s prediction reflecting the belief that the Crimson Tide will find its next star under center sooner rather than later.
