Alabama football is set to begin spring practice in less than two weeks, kicking off preparations for the 2025 season. As always, the quarterback battle in Tuscaloosa will be a focal point, with three talented players competing to replace Jalen Milroe.
Redshirt junior Ty Simpson enters spring as the frontrunner, given his experience as Milroe’s primary backup over the past two seasons. Simpson has appeared in 15 games, completing 50 passes with no touchdowns, though he has rushed for three scores, showcasing his dual-threat ability. However, his ability to develop as a passer will be critical to running Kalen DeBoer’s offense effectively.
Simpson’s time at Alabama has been marked by coaching changes, as he will now work with his fourth offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb. Despite this turnover, quarterbacks coach Nick Sheridan remains on staff, providing some continuity. Most of Simpson’s playing time has come in relief duty, with his most significant action occurring in Alabama’s 2023 win over South Florida. Though he showed improvement in last year’s A-Day game, the starting job is far from guaranteed.
Austin Mack and Keelon Russell Provide Strong Competition
Washington transfer Austin Mack could be the biggest beneficiary of Grubb’s arrival. Now in his third season under DeBoer’s system, Mack followed his former head coach from Washington to Alabama after spending 2023 as the Huskies’ No. 4 quarterback. Originally a top-100 recruit in the 2023 class, Mack has the size and arm strength to thrive in Grubb’s offense and is the only QB on the roster who was directly recruited by him.
Meanwhile, 5-star freshman Keelon Russell is considered Alabama’s highest-rated recruit ever and represents the program’s future. A dynamic fit for DeBoer’s system, Russell faces a steep learning curve adjusting to the college game and will need to add weight to handle the physical demands. However, he is the most naturally gifted passer on the roster and will push for playing time immediately.
Alabama’s quarterback room is loaded with talent but lacks experience. The intense competition among Simpson, Mack, and Russell should elevate their performances, ensuring that whoever wins the job will have earned it.
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