Alabama’s Quarterback Race Heats Up as Crimson Tide Wraps Up Spring

As the calendar prepares to flip toward the dog days of summer, the Alabama Crimson Tide stands at a pivotal crossroads in what has already been described as one of the most productive spring periods of the post-Nick Saban era. Under the leadership of new head coach Kalen DeBoer, the team has begun reshaping its identity, and while much remains to be proven on the field, optimism is simmering across Tuscaloosa.

With one final practice before the modified A-Day showcase this weekend, fans and coaches alike are set to zero in on the biggest question looming over the program: Who will be the starting quarterback in 2025? The answer isn’t obvious—and that’s precisely what makes it so intriguing.

So far, the reports from inside spring camp paint a competitive, wide-open race between returning sophomore Ty Simpson, redshirt freshman Austin Mack, and highly touted true freshman Keelon Russell. It’s a dynamic battle filled with different skill sets, personalities, and upside—and as of now, no clear frontrunner has emerged.

Simpson brings the benefit of experience, having spent two full seasons in the system while backing up Jalen Milroe and getting limited in-game reps. Mack, a product of the Pacific Northwest and one of DeBoer’s early gems at Washington, transferred in with upside and a familiarity with the coaching staff. Then there’s Russell, a five-star signee from Texas who has hit the ground running with an early enrollment and a quick adaptation to the Crimson Tide’s tempo.

What’s been most compelling for observers is how evenly the reps have been distributed. According to those attending practices and scrimmages, the coaching staff has made an effort to rotate the quarterbacks through first-team and second-team reps in order to give each a fair opportunity. That’s by design, as DeBoer and offensive coordinator Nick Sheridan seek to find not just the most talented passer, but the one most capable of commanding the huddle, reading defenses, and executing under pressure.

It’s a philosophical shift from recent years, when the Tide either had a clear incumbent or a hand-picked heir apparent. This year, the door is wide open—and the implications are massive. With Alabama returning a loaded defense, deep skill-position groups, and arguably the best offensive line in the SEC, the only thing holding the Tide back from contending immediately under DeBoer may be who takes the snaps under center.

Simpson entered the spring as the perceived favorite due to his tenure within the program and flashes of talent. A former top-100 recruit, Simpson has always had the physical tools—quick feet, solid arm strength, and mobility in and out of the pocket. What’s held him back in the past has been consistency. He’s had moments of brilliance in practice, followed by head-scratching lapses. This spring, however, multiple insiders have noted improved command and a calmer presence during team drills. His familiarity with Alabama’s expectations and his comfort with the offensive line give him a leg up in terms of chemistry.

Austin Mack, meanwhile, brings something of a wildcard energy to the race. At 6-foot-6 with a strong arm and a cerebral approach, he fits the mold of the prototypical DeBoer quarterback. After reclassifying to join Washington early, Mack spent last season absorbing the college game while adjusting to its speed. Now, with his coach following him to Tuscaloosa, he’s shown flashes of high IQ decision-making and a smooth throwing motion that plays well in Alabama’s evolving offensive scheme.

There’s also an intangible element with Mack—his familiarity with DeBoer’s offensive principles. That’s not nothing, especially in a quarterback battle this tight. Mack’s comfort level operating in play-action, making pre-snap reads, and diagnosing coverages could give him an early edge in terms of playbook execution. While his lack of game experience is a concern, coaches have reportedly been impressed with how quickly he’s taken to the new environment.

But the buzz around Keelon Russell is hard to ignore.

The Duncanville, Texas, standout didn’t just come in with a five-star billing—he came in with confidence, precision, and a swagger that’s infectious. Despite being the youngest of the trio, Russell has not looked overwhelmed by the moment. From all accounts, he’s picked up the offense at a surprising rate and has already strung together impressive performances in 7-on-7s and red-zone work. His combination of natural arm talent and athleticism has drawn comparisons to some of Alabama’s best dual-threat quarterbacks of the past decade.

Still, the challenge for Russell is less about raw ability and more about maturity. Can he digest everything fast enough? Can he take the hits, respond to adversity, and lead a locker room full of veteran players? Those are the questions that can only be answered through reps—and A-Day will provide his biggest stage yet.

The modified format of this year’s A-Day game—streamlined to reduce injury risk and emphasize situational drills—will still give fans a valuable look at all three quarterbacks. It won’t be definitive, but it will offer clues. How do they handle pressure? Who looks poised in the red zone? Which player has the best timing with the wide receivers? These things matter, even in a limited scrimmage setting.

DeBoer has been deliberate in not tipping his hand publicly. That’s by design. He wants the competition to stretch into summer, if necessary, and it’s clear he doesn’t want to rush the decision. After all, this quarterback will be the face of his new era. Naming the wrong guy too early could derail momentum before it even starts.

Beyond the quarterback position, the Crimson Tide also used the spring to experiment with position groups, identify potential breakout stars, and implement new schemes on both sides of the ball. Defensive coordinator Kane Wommack has been praised for his aggressive looks and flexibility, particularly in how the front seven has operated. Linebacker Jihaad Campbell and EDGE rusher Keon Keeley have made noise with disruptive performances, while cornerbacks Domani Jackson and Trey Amos have looked solid in coverage.

Offensively, Alabama’s skill talent may be underrated nationally. Wide receiver Kendrick Law has emerged as a go-to target, showing strong hands and route-running polish. Tight end Amari Niblack continues to be a matchup nightmare, while junior running back Justice Haynes looks ready to step into a featured role with speed and vision.

But make no mistake—the success of this Alabama team will rise or fall on the shoulders of whoever wins the quarterback job.

There’s also the question of the transfer portal. In the modern college football landscape, quarterback competitions don’t always end with handshakes and depth-chart promotions. It’s possible that one or even two of these quarterbacks could explore options elsewhere if they don’t land the starting gig. That makes DeBoer’s timing and transparency even more important. Managing the room—not just picking a starter—will be a critical test of his leadership.

Alabama’s fanbase is known for its passion, and there’s an eagerness to see what the post-Saban era holds. This spring has offered reasons for excitement. Practices have been crisp. Energy has been high. There’s a sense of newness without chaos—structure without rigidity. Players have bought in. Now it’s about continuing the upward trajectory into the summer and fall.

A-Day, even in its modified form, will be a measuring stick—not just for quarterbacks, but for the entire program. It’s a chance for fans to see how DeBoer’s fingerprints are shaping Alabama football, from tempo to toughness to technique.

For now, all eyes remain on Simpson, Mack, and Russell. The race is as tight as it’s ever been, and while there’s no clear favorite yet, that might be exactly what Alabama needs. A real competition. A fresh start. A new era, quietly unfolding in the heat of a spring that’s just about to end.

And when the dog days of summer arrive, whoever emerges under center will carry the hopes of a program still chasing greatness, just in a slightly different shade of crimson.