The NFL Draft process is a whirlwind of hype, skepticism, and overreactions, and few prospects embody all three like Jalen Milroe. The former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback is as polarizing as they come—a freak athlete with tantalizing upside but equally glaring question marks. For months, scouts and analysts have debated whether Milroe is a legitimate NFL QB or just another athletic project destined for a position change. Wednesday’s Alabama Pro Day in Mobile was supposed to bring clarity, and in some ways, it did. But for every jaw-dropping moment, there was an undercurrent of doubt that simply won’t go away.

The biggest headline? Jalen Milroe clocked a blistering 4.37 in the 40-yard dash—an eye-popping number that makes him the third-fastest quarterback in recorded NFL testing history, trailing only Michael Vick (4.33) and Lamar Jackson (4.34). That alone was enough to turn heads, as the numbers placed him in rare company. But does being an elite runner translate to being an elite quarterback? That’s where the conversation gets complicated.

Even before the Pro Day, Jalen Milroe was viewed as the ultimate boom-or-bust prospect. One anonymous AFC scout was quoted saying, “He’s an elite coaching staff away from making the Titans look silly for selecting anyone else with the first pick.” High praise, sure. But also a massive gamble. Because as much as Milroe’s athleticism is jaw-dropping, it’s impossible to ignore his struggles with accuracy, decision-making, and consistency as a passer.

NFL Rookie Watch particularly hyped up Milroe’s throwing session, stating he “put on a passing clinic” and was the “most accurate NFL scouts have seen him yet in the pre-draft process.” That’s promising, but Pro Days are notorious for being controlled environments designed to make quarterbacks look good. There’s no defense, no pressure, and no need to read coverage. In other words, it’s an illusion of competence rather than proof of it.

What’s more concerning is that Milroe chose not to participate in on-field drills at the NFL Combine, a move that raised eyebrows. Some saw it as a strategic decision—allowing him to throw in familiar surroundings with his own receivers. Others viewed it as avoiding an opportunity to prove themselves against the competition. Now, after a stellar Pro Day, the question is: Did he actually move up draft boards, or is this just the annual pre-draft smokescreen where teams feign interest in a player only to pass on them in April?

Teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns have reportedly shown interest, and the idea of Jalen Milroe going on Day 2 is gaining traction. But while his speed and raw potential are undeniable, the biggest concern remains: Can he process defenses and make the right throws under pressure? Speed can’t make up for missed reads and erratic ball placement.

And that’s why, for all the excitement around his Pro Day, there’s still hesitation from NFL evaluators.

“Blistering pace doesn’t make you a better passer”

While NFL scouts may be split on Jalen Milroe, the college football community seems to have made up its mind. Under NFL Rookie Watch’s Pro Day highlight post, fans were quick to express their skepticism, with some outright dismissing the idea of him being an early-round pick. One user bluntly stated, “Idc don’t draft him in the first round.” While teams often reach for passers due to positional value. Right now, Milroe hasn’t shown enough to warrant that kind of investment.

Another fella posed a question that cuts to the heart of the issue: “I never understand how a workout can significantly improve a player’s draft stock. At the end of the day, it should always be based on GAME FILM.” This is an age-old debate in draft circles. Pro Days and Combines are great for measuring athletic traits, but they don’t replace actual game performance. If Milroe’s film hasn’t convinced teams he’s a first-round talent, why should a scripted throwing session change that?

Then there was the inevitable “LOL…maybe in the 3rd round?” comment, which seems to echo a growing consensus. Even if Milroe’s Pro Day was impressive, the idea of him going early in the Draft still feels like a reach. His upside is undeniable, but so is the risk. Some see a late Day 2 or early Day 3 pick as a more reasonable landing spot.

One further, said, “I’m waiting for a QB Pro Day where they have to read coverage… LOL!!!” He’s an elite athlete, but signal calling isn’t just about running fast and throwing far. It’s about processing information in real time, making quick decisions, and delivering accurate throws under duress.

Finally, one fan put it simply: “Someone will reach for him. It’ll be a mistake but someone will.” That might be the most accurate take yet. Every draft has a QB prospect who gets overdrafted based on raw potential—think Malik Willis or Trey Lance. The allure of dual-threat QBs with elite physical tools is too tempting for some teams to pass up. But history shows that those picks don’t always pan out.