The Alabama football quarterback room will look different in 2025. The question is how different.

As reported by AL.com, quarterback Dylan Lonergan plans to enter the transfer portal, which will shake up the depth chart for next season. On top of that, Jalen Milroe faces a critical decision regarding his future, as he contemplates entering the NFL Draft. ESPN currently ranks Milroe as the fourth-best quarterback in the 2025 class, making his decision one of the most significant for Alabama’s program. If Milroe opts for the draft, it would leave Ty Simpson and Austin Mack as the primary returners in the quarterback room. Alabama will also welcome five-star freshman quarterback Keelon Russell, adding even more competition to what is already an intriguing battle for the starting job.

Milroe was asked about the future of the quarterback room during a recent interview and was optimistic about what lies ahead. “Next year, it’s going to be a really talented group that’s going to be in a position to do a lot of special things,” Milroe said. “I’m excited for those guys for the opportunity that’s presented for them.” His comments reflect the high expectations he has for the program, and the potential for Alabama to remain one of the top teams in college football, even as they transition to a new era at the quarterback position.

Ty Simpson, who has spent three years with Alabama, is widely regarded as the favorite to win the starting job next season. Despite not seeing as much playing time as Milroe in 2024, Simpson has had ample time to learn behind a veteran quarterback, just as Milroe did when he was behind Bryce Young. Milroe spoke highly of Simpson’s growth throughout the season: “I think he did a really good job of constantly trying to improve, trying to go 1-0. Just learning and growing as a quarterback. I’ve been in his shoes before, just being behind Bryce and learning each and every day to just try to be the best version of myself. That’s exactly what he does. Try to beat on his craft. Learn, grow, and it’s been awesome just to see how much he’s grown as a quarterback and also as a leader. I’m behind him through this whole process and I enjoy being around him.”

With Simpson likely in the driver’s seat to take over as Alabama’s starting quarterback in 2025, the team will look to him to lead the offense moving forward. But with Keelon Russell coming in as a highly regarded freshman, there will undoubtedly be competition for the spot, adding another layer of excitement to Alabama’s quarterback situation next season.

As for Milroe, he remains focused on finishing the current season strong. Alabama is preparing for the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Florida, on December 31, where Milroe has confirmed he will play. The game offers Milroe one final opportunity to showcase his abilities in an Alabama uniform, and it could also serve as a platform for him to make his case for the NFL Draft. Regardless of his decision, Milroe’s leadership and growth this season will leave a lasting impact on the program and help set the stage for Alabama’s quarterback competition in 2025.