Will Jalen Milroe Earn More as an NFL QB or in College Football?

When it comes to the financial landscape of college and professional football, the norms are shifting dramatically. Jalen Milroe’s situation is a prime example of this transformation. The former Alabama quarterback now faces a pivotal question: would he have made more money if he had chosen to stay in college football instead of declaring for the NFL Draft?

The Evolving Financial Landscape

Gone are the days when playing in the NFL solely dictated a player’s financial success. The introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals has revolutionized how athletes can monetize their talents while in college. With revenue sharing set to start this fall, college athletes are cashing in on substantial opportunities that rival many NFL salaries.

Potential Earnings in College Football

In the current market, top college quarterbacks are landing lucrative deals. For instance, Milroe is projected to earn approximately $1.14 million this season with the Seattle Seahawks, who picked him 92nd overall in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, according to Spotrac.

However, what’s particularly striking is that this amount could be comparable to what he might have earned if he remained in college football. Reports indicate that the top quarterbacks can secure financial agreements ranging from $750,000 to $2 million per year, as noted by On3’s Pete Nakos.

The High-End Deals

The pinnacle of college football earnings has even reached between $3-$4 million. The deal signed by quarterback Darian Mensah at Duke exemplifies this trend, averaging around $4 million annually, according to CBS Sports.

What if Milroe Stayed in College?

While Milroe may not have commanded top dollar, staying in college could have significantly enhanced his draft stock and, consequently, his financial situation. With one season of eligibility left, the question arises: could he have improved his performance enough to deserve a more substantial payday?

Comparison with Other Quarterbacks

To illustrate, consider Cam Ward, who was drafted first overall by Tennessee and stands to earn $8.865 million this season. The figures indicate that Milroe could have potentially positioned himself for a much richer contract if he had opted to enhance his skills and reputation in college football further.

Conclusion: A Strategic Choice for Future Earnings

As Jalen Milroe embarks on his professional career, the implications of his decision to leave college football for the NFL will unfold. The financial opportunities available to college athletes today cannot be overlooked and may even outshine potential NFL contracts for certain players.

Whether Milroe made the right choice remains to be seen, but one thing is certain— the dynamics of college sports are changing, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for aspiring athletes.

For more insights into college football earnings and player movements, stay tuned to AL.com and follow the ongoing conversation about the future of sports compensation!