Nick Saban’s departure to retirement has opened another era for Alabama football.
The additions of the NCAA transfer portal and name, image, and likeness have made college football a different game, but the Crimson Tide has someone now taking its brand to the masses. Jalen Milroe has made quite a few show appearance before preseason camp starts next week. The returning quarterback has been on ESPN’s First Take and CBS Mornings.
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He discussed a range of topics on both shows, including Saban’s retirement, his relationship with Kalen DeBoer, and how does Alabama define success without Saban as head coach. NIL has been great for Milroe, but the native Texan keeps the main things at the forefront of conversations. He has represented the University of Alabama with poise, character, confidence, leadership, and the mentality of winning a national championship. The opportunity he has to make these show appearances proves that the Tide is not going away from being the standard of college football. Milroe was one of several athletes on the cover of the new Electronic Arts Sports College Football 25 Game. He has a 90 overall ratings and many fans enjoy playing with Alabama because of him.
These show appearances also help out his appeal to get Alabama its fifth Heisman Trophy winner. He is building a relationship with the New York media and the Heisman presentation is in New York City. Should he become the Tide’s fifth Heisman winner, these show appearances will prepare him for the moment. It also makes Alabama a stronger recruiting brand. Milroe’s presence on television talking up the Alabama brand makes future recruits think about wanting to commit to the Tide even more.
Saban did not have players doing show appearances before fall camp. They may have competed in his charity golf tournament or autographs some things for children, but they did not appear on several show platforms before preseason practice.
Milroe is taking advantage of this opportunity, and it’s a win for him and the program.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
