Jalen Milroe aspires to earn the “trust and respect” of the Seahawks’ locker room

Jalen Milroe, who played for the Alabama Crimson Tide, is recognized not only for his football talent but also for his academic excellence and leadership off the field.

Jalen Milroe aspires to earn the “trust and respect” of the Seahawks’ locker room

Jalen Milroe (#6) practiced at the rookie mini camp (Image via Seattle Seahawks)

The Seattle Seahawks were one of the early teams in the hunt for a playoff spot last season before a couple of losses pushed them to the second spot in the NFC West. They had a decent quarterback who had his name atop the quarterback charts for some time – but it wasn’t enough to make the cut.

In the offseason, they added Sam Darnold, who was one of the biggest comeback stories of the 2024. The former Minnesota Vikings quarterback led the team to 14 wins in the regular season before the playoff collapse. Furthermore, they strengthened their QB room by bringing back Drew Lock and adding Jalen Milroe in the NFL Draft 2025.

The Seattle Seahawks have planned to ease him into NFL action, allowing him time to adjust. His athleticism and raw tools had impressed scouts and some owners as well, but immediate starting duties are not expected.

The Seahawks have made their quarterback situation transparent ahead of training camp. Darnold, with the most experience, has been named the starter. Lock, who has shown flashes of promise in previous seasons, held the backup role. Milroe’s assignment involved learning the system and developing under minimal pressure. This structured approach has been designed to support long-term growth.

Milroe, speaking on the NFL Network, has emphasized respect for the veterans ahead of him.

I’m a student of the game and I’ve got to earn the trust and respect of everyone in the locker room. Meeting extra with the coaching staff, getting around the guys in the room, learning, growing. These guys have had reps in the NFL, competed at a high level. So as a young guy, all I want to do is pay respect to the veterans.

Jalen Milroe said

Though considered a project, Milroe has demonstrated an awareness of his role and patience for the process. The Seahawks view him as a long-term asset rather than an immediate contributor. His maturity and work ethic could land him a call-up sooner than expected.

Jalen Milroe is upgrading himself in the meantime

Seattle Seahawks rookie Jalen Milroe has continued to display impressive self-awareness during his early NFL transition. After being selected in the 2025 draft, he openly acknowledged the areas of his game needing development. His pre-draft interviews have shown a clear understanding of the refinement required to succeed professionally.

Jalen Milroe
Jalen Milroe (Image via Athlon Sports)

Milroe has not hidden from the fact that he was a raw talent with room to grow, as seen in his recent admission as well. Seattle’s coaching staff, led by Mike Macdonald, welcomed his maturity and commitment.

His combination of physical tools and open mindset has made him a developmental priority for the franchise. Despite entering camp behind Sam Darnold and Drew Lock, Milroe has remained focused on progress. He has been working closely with private quarterback coach Jordan Palmer to fine-tune specific aspects of his game.

I’ve been working on throwing with more touch and improving my short passing. Understanding how to play within structure is a big focus for me right now.

Jalen Milroe told reporters

Palmer’s mentorship has centered on helping Milroe adapt his explosive athletic style to the NFL tempo. Known for his arm strength and mobility, Milroe still needs to improve on timing and anticipation. Milroe noted that Palmer has been helping him break down protections and process faster from the pocket.

The Seahawks have no immediate plans to rush Milroe onto the field in 2025. With Darnold’s guaranteed contract and Lock’s experience, the team aims to give Milroe preseason reps and time to grow.

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