As the 2025 college football season approaches, one of the most significant questions surrounding the Alabama Crimson Tide is who will be under center when the season begins. With the departure of former quarterback Bryce Young, a Heisman Trophy winner and one of the best quarterbacks in Alabama history, a new signal-caller is set to take over the reins of one of college football’s most prestigious programs. While Alabama has been home to elite quarterbacks in the past, the pressure on the next quarterback to maintain the program’s high standards is immense.
Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy, who himself had a successful career under Nick Saban, has recently weighed in on the situation. According to McElroy, one quarterback is currently in “firm control” of the starting job for Alabama. McElroy, known for his insights into the game, especially regarding the quarterback position, has pointed to a specific player as the frontrunner for the job.
In this article, we will examine McElroy’s comments in detail, analyze the quarterback battle at Alabama, explore the prospects of the player McElroy is referring to, and look at how the Crimson Tide’s quarterback situation could impact the 2025 season.
Greg McElroy’s Insight on the Quarterback Battle
Greg McElroy, who starred as Alabama’s quarterback from 2007 to 2010, has built a career as a commentator and analyst. His deep understanding of the game and his unique perspective as a former player under Nick Saban makes his insights highly valuable to fans, players, and coaches alike. When McElroy talks about quarterbacks, people listen.
In a recent segment, McElroy spoke candidly about the ongoing quarterback competition at Alabama, stating that one quarterback is in “firm control” of the starting job. While McElroy did not name the player specifically, his comments sent shockwaves through the Alabama football community. The quarterback position has been a topic of great interest for Alabama fans ever since Bryce Young declared for the NFL Draft, and McElroy’s statement added another layer of intrigue to what has already been an intense competition.
According to McElroy, the player in question has shown the most consistency, leadership, and understanding of the offense during spring practice and in offseason workouts. While Alabama has several talented quarterbacks on the roster, McElroy believes that this particular player has separated himself and is likely to be the starter when the season begins. His “firm control” over the position is not only based on his ability to execute plays, but also on his command of the locker room and his ability to perform under pressure.
The Quarterback Competition: A Look at the Candidates
Alabama has long been known for producing elite quarterbacks, from Joe Namath to A.J. McCarron, Jalen Hurts to Tua Tagovailoa, and most recently, Bryce Young. After Young’s departure, the Crimson Tide found itself in a familiar position: rebuilding at the quarterback spot, but with high expectations looming.
Heading into the 2025 season, Alabama’s quarterback room features several talented players competing for the starting job. While McElroy didn’t explicitly name the quarterback in question, a closer look at the candidates provides insight into who might be in “firm control” of the position.
1. Jalen Milroe
Jalen Milroe is one of the most intriguing quarterbacks in the Alabama program. A redshirt sophomore, Milroe has already gained some experience in Alabama’s high-profile offense, having played in several games during his first two seasons. Milroe is known for his incredible athleticism, with the ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs. His dual-threat ability makes him a dangerous weapon, and he could be the type of quarterback that fits perfectly with Nick Saban’s evolving offensive philosophy.
Milroe showed flashes of brilliance during his appearances, particularly with his ability to extend plays and make big throws downfield. However, he has also shown some inconsistency in his decision-making and passing accuracy, which has caused concern for Alabama fans. While Milroe’s potential is undeniable, his ability to put everything together and perform at a high level on a consistent basis will be critical in his bid for the starting job.
2. Tyler Buchner
Tyler Buchner, a transfer from Notre Dame, is another name to keep an eye on in the quarterback competition. Buchner was highly regarded as a recruit and showed promise at Notre Dame before suffering injuries that limited his opportunities. However, his time in the Fighting Irish system has provided him with valuable experience, and his arm strength and athleticism make him a natural fit for Alabama’s offense.
Buchner’s experience in big games, including his time at Notre Dame, could prove advantageous as he competes for the starting job. His familiarity with high-pressure situations and his ability to make quick decisions under duress could give him the edge in a competition that demands poise and leadership. However, Buchner’s injury history and the question of whether he can quickly adapt to the fast-paced, high-level environment of Alabama football will play a role in his pursuit of the starting role.
3. Brock Glenn
Brock Glenn, a highly-touted freshman recruit, is one of the youngest quarterbacks in the room but has been highly praised for his talent and potential. Glenn, a four-star recruit, was one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 recruiting class and is known for his arm strength, accuracy, and poise in the pocket. While Glenn is unlikely to start right away, his potential is immense, and he could emerge as a future leader of the Crimson Tide.
Though he’s still learning the ropes at the collegiate level, Glenn’s arrival at Alabama brings an added layer of competition to the quarterback room. It’s clear that his talent will not go unnoticed, and while he might not be in “firm control” of the starting job just yet, he could develop into a strong contender as the season progresses.
The Player in “Firm Control” of the Job
While McElroy’s statement didn’t explicitly identify the quarterback in question, the consensus among insiders and analysts suggests that Jalen Milroe is the player McElroy is referring to. Milroe has been the most consistent of the candidates during spring practices and has impressed coaches with his leadership abilities. His dual-threat skills give him the ability to both execute plays through the air and make big plays with his legs, which aligns well with Nick Saban’s evolving offensive system.
Milroe’s development over the course of the offseason has been widely discussed, and many believe that he has taken the necessary steps to address his previous inconsistencies. He has worked on his passing accuracy and decision-making, two areas that were sometimes problematic during his earlier appearances. If Milroe can continue to grow and mature as a quarterback, he has all the tools necessary to succeed at Alabama.
His experience with the offense and his leadership qualities make him the frontrunner for the starting job, and McElroy’s comments only confirm the belief that Milroe is in control of the position. While other quarterbacks like Tyler Buchner and Brock Glenn will likely continue to push for playing time, Milroe’s edge in experience and his physical tools give him a leg up as Alabama enters the 2025 season.
The Impact of the Quarterback Decision on Alabama’s 2025 Season
The decision regarding Alabama’s starting quarterback will have a profound impact on the 2025 season. The Crimson Tide has high expectations, as always, and the program is looking to continue its dominance in the SEC and college football at large. With Nick Saban at the helm, the Tide will be a contender, but the quarterback position is often the key to success in college football.
For Jalen Milroe, being named the starting quarterback could be a career-defining moment. If he takes control of the offense, Alabama could once again be a national championship contender, thanks to his ability to make explosive plays and lead the team. His growth and maturity as a quarterback will be crucial in determining whether Alabama can remain on top in a conference that features powerhouse programs like Georgia, LSU, and Tennessee.
While the quarterback position is of the utmost importance, Alabama’s overall success in 2025 will depend on several factors, including its defense, offensive line play, and playmaking ability at wide receiver and running back. However, having a quarterback who can execute the game plan and deliver in key moments is essential for Alabama to reach its ultimate goals.
As the 2025 season approaches, Alabama’s quarterback situation remains one of the most compelling storylines in college football. With several talented quarterbacks competing for the starting job, the race for the position has been closely watched by fans, media, and analysts alike.