"I don’t think he’s ready": Damien Harris feels Jalen Milroe needs one more year in college football, but not at Alabama

Following his senior season at Alabama, Jalen Milroe is expected to enter the upcoming 2025 NFL draft. The quarterback had another noteworthy year in Tuscaloosa this season, despite a few challenges under new Crimson Tide coach Kalen DeBoer.

While Milroe is considered a Day 1 or early Day 2 pick by a host of draft experts, former Alabam running back Damien Harris doesn’t believe it’s the right step for him. On Tuesday's episode of The Athletic's "Until Saturday" podcast, Harris said:

”I don’t think he should go to the NFL draft because I don’t think he’s ready. I think he should hit the transfer portal, go somewhere, get a fresh start. Because I don’t think this marriage between him and Kalen DeBoer, it doesn’t look like it’s working. Not for either person, not saying it’s either party’s fault, just sometimes relationships just don’t work.”

Milroe threw for 2,652 yards and 15 touchdowns during the regular season. The QB also rushed for 719 yards and 20 touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat attribute. However, he was found wanting in a couple of games, which probably triggered Harris’ opinion.

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Damien Harris wants Quinn Ewers to replace Jalen Milroe

Harris believes Jalen Milroe should transfer away from Alabama and suggests Quinn Ewers as his possible replacement. The Texas quarterback is also expected to declare for the 2025 NFL draft, but Damien Harris sees a much better path for him in Tuscaloosa.

Ewers has had his own troubles this season. While he started the year on a brilliant note, he hasn't offered the Longhorns’ offense the spark it needs to become as explosive as it can be. However, Harris feels Ewers could thrive better under Alabama's current system:

“Quinn Ewers out at Texas, transfers to the University of Alabama, plays under Kalen DeBoer, makes something out of this offense. Honestly, I think that he’s a better-fit quarterback-wise than Jackson Arnold or Jalen Milroe. … If Quin Ewers does not go to the NFL, there is no way he goes back to Texas.”

Harris may be right regarding Quinn Ewers' situation at Texas. Arch Manning is expected to take the starting role next season after playing as a backup for two years, which leaves Ewers in a difficult position if he does not enter the draft.

Despite Harris' suggested path for Jalen Milroe and Quinn Ewers, it's more likely that both will be in the NFL next season.