Alabama’s Quarterback Conundrum: A New Era Under Kalen DeBoer
Alabama’s reputation for stockpiling 5-star talent dates back long before Kalen DeBoer took over. During the Nick Saban era, recruiting battles often ended the same way—other teams walked away empty-handed while Alabama stacked championship-caliber rosters. Saban’s success stemmed from his coaching genius combined with a never-ending pipeline of elite players. Tuscaloosa has consistently attracted more top recruits than almost any other program in the country. Now, with Saban’s departure, DeBoer faces a major early challenge—choosing the right quarterback to lead Alabama forward.
The Quarterback Battle Begins
Alabama QB Austin Mack has been turning heads in spring practice and is a serious contender for the starting job, sources tell @PeteNakos_👀
Intel: https://t.co/pE6PhlgmEZ pic.twitter.com/qwNM0DHqtX
— On3 (@On3sports) March 19, 2025
At first glance, the decision should be straightforward. Jalen Milroe’s departure seemingly paves the way for Ty Simpson, the team’s former backup, to take over as QB1. Simpson has been patient, developing within the program and waiting for his turn. A former 5-star recruit, he has more experience at Alabama than his closest competition, Austin Mack and Keelon Russell. Given his tenure and preparation, Simpson appears to be the natural successor. But college football rarely follows a simple script.
Austin Mack has emerged as a serious contender, shaking up the expected transition. A major reason? The arrival of new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Grubb, who worked under DeBoer at Washington, is implementing a new system that could benefit Mack. Having played under DeBoer and Grubb at Washington, Mack may already have a better understanding of their offensive approach than Simpson. This familiarity could give him a key advantage in the competition.
The Buzz Around Austin Mack
Recent reports suggest Mack is making a strong case to start. On3’s Pete Nakos noted that Mack has impressed during spring practices and is now a legitimate contender for the starting role. DeBoer’s coaching philosophy prioritizes merit over seniority, meaning time in the program won’t guarantee Simpson the job. While Simpson’s patience and loyalty are commendable, Alabama will ultimately start the best quarterback available.
This situation has raised concerns about Simpson’s future with the team. According to Bama insider Mick Gillispie, Simpson may enter the transfer portal if he loses the starting job. Former Alabama quarterback Jake Coker echoed that sentiment, acknowledging that Simpson has shown great perseverance but may need to move on if he isn’t chosen. The reality of modern college football is that quarterbacks who don’t win starting jobs often leave to seek playing time elsewhere.
Keelon Russell: The Wild Card
Adding to the complexity of the quarterback race is true freshman Keelon Russell. The days when freshmen quarterbacks sat and developed for years are fading. Russell, a highly decorated recruit, is part of the new wave of college football players who are ready to compete immediately.
Russell’s credentials are impressive. He was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year, threw for over 4,000 yards and 55 touchdowns in high school, and led Duncanville to back-to-back state championships. His 247Sports composite score of 100 makes him the highest-rated recruit in Alabama history. With this résumé, it’s not out of the question that Russell could leapfrog Simpson entirely.
The Decision Ahead
Conventional wisdom suggests Simpson deserves the first shot at the starting job unless he clearly struggles in spring practice. But reports of Mack’s strong performance and his familiarity with the new offensive system suggest that the competition is real. If Mack wins the job, Simpson’s departure seems likely.
This decision will be one of DeBoer’s first defining moments as Alabama’s head coach. The expectations in Tuscaloosa are sky-high, and choosing the wrong quarterback could have lasting consequences. Alabama isn’t just looking for a competent starter—they need a leader who can maintain the program’s championship standard.
As the battle for QB1 continues, all eyes are on DeBoer and his staff. Whether it’s Simpson, Mack, or even Russell, the choice will shape the Crimson Tide’s immediate future.