Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has revealed a stunning detail about the chaotic period following Nick Saban’s retirement, sharing that he was offered a reported $2.5 million NIL package to transfer away from Alabama.

Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has revealed a stunning detail about the chaotic period following Nick Saban’s retirement, sharing that he was offered a reported $2.5 million NIL package to transfer away from Alabama. Milroe made the revelation during a recent podcast appearance with former Crimson Tide star Patrick Surtain II, shedding new light on the high-stakes decisions players faced during the transition.

According to Milroe, the offer came shortly after legendary head coach Nick Saban officially stepped away from the program, a moment that triggered widespread uncertainty across college football. As schools scrambled to capitalize, Milroe said he was heavily recruited to leave Tuscaloosa, with the financial offer alone being life-changing.

Despite the magnitude of the deal, Milroe explained that money was not the deciding factor. He told Surtain that after deep reflection, he believed staying at Alabama was the right move—not just for himself, but for his teammates and the locker room as a whole. Milroe emphasized loyalty, unfinished business, and belief in the program’s direction as key reasons behind his decision.

The quarterback admitted the decision was not easy, acknowledging the pressure that comes with turning down such a significant opportunity. However, he said remaining with the Alabama Crimson Tide allowed him to continue building trust with his teammates and maintain stability during a time when the roster could have fractured.

Milroe’s comments have resonated strongly with Alabama fans, who view his choice as a rare example of commitment in an era dominated by NIL bidding wars and frequent transfers. Teammates and supporters alike have praised his leadership, pointing to his decision as a tone-setter for the post-Saban era.

In a college football landscape increasingly defined by financial leverage, Milroe’s story stands out. Turning down $2.5 million was not just a personal decision—it was a statement about culture, belief, and loyalty. As Alabama moves forward into a new chapter, moments like this may define how the program preserves its identity in a rapidly changing sport.