Keelon Russell Emerges as Frontrunner for Alabama’s Starting Quarterback Under Kalen DeBoer
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer faces a quarterback dilemma after Ty Simpson’s departure, with rising sophomore Keelon Russell and Austin Mack vying for the starting role.
Analyst RJ Young predicts Russell will win the job, citing his athletic potential and rapid progress despite fewer snaps than Mack, who has more experience in DeBoer’s system.
The competition will likely be resolved before preseason, setting the stage for one of the SEC’s most anticipated storylines as Alabama prepares for a challenging 2026 schedule.