Mark Ingram Names Former SEC Star Who Could Have Been No. 1 QB in 2025 NFL Draft

"Carson Beck, let's go back to a year ago," Ingram said. "We were talking about him being the No. 1 quarterback in the draft, in the one that just passed. So I'm like, is the potential there? Yes. Now, potential is just exactly that. Potential."

Ironically, the first quarterback taken in April's draft was former Miami star Cam Ward, who was selected No. 1 overall by the Tennessee Titans. 

Ward was also a transfer addition by the Hurricanes, joining from the Washington State Cougars last season. Before Washington State, Ward attended Incarnate Word. 

For Ingram's alma mater, Alabama, the Crimson Tide is entering a new phase under center. Jalen Milroe is in the NFL, and Ty Simpson has been named the starting quarterback. 

Simpson recently attended the Manning Passing Academy and described the event as a "bucket list" item. 

Ingram's former head coach, Nick Saban, is no longer with the program, having retired following the 2023 season. Kalen DeBoer now leads Alabama and went 9-4 in year one. 

Simpson explained that the Crimson Tide were missing the Alabama standard last season, referring to the program's history of success, highlighted by six national titles. 

Alabama faces the Florida State Seminoles to open DeBoer's second year. Kickoff is on August 30 at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.