As Alabama gears up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on the Crimson Tide’s quarterback battle. Head coach Kalen DeBoer addressed the ongoing competition during the SEC Spring Meetings, emphasizing that the competition between Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell is not only intense but also “healthy.”
DeBoer, entering his first full year at the helm after taking over for legendary coach Nick Saban, acknowledged the unique challenges of determining a starting quarterback in Tuscaloosa. However, he was quick to highlight the mutual respect and leadership demonstrated by all three candidates during the offseason. Despite the absence of formal team practices in recent weeks, the quarterback room has remained active and united, especially through player-led workouts.
“These guys did a great job, all three of them, of doing some of these leadership things and going places and bringing guys together,” DeBoer said. “And the best part about it was it wasn’t just one quarterback took three guys and another quarterback took these four. They all did it together.”
This sense of unity, even amid fierce competition, has been particularly encouraging for DeBoer. He described the competition as “healthy,” a word not always associated with position battles at powerhouse programs. The willingness of Simpson, Mack, and Russell to collaborate and support one another—even as they battle for the most high-profile role on the team—reflects the culture DeBoer is aiming to build at Alabama.
“It is a competition,” DeBoer admitted. “I’ve referred to it as a healthy one just because they all respect each other. They’re all going as hard as they can. They’re gonna step on each other’s toes at times in that leadership role and things like that, but so be it. I appreciate the way they’ve gone after it.”
Ty Simpson, the veteran of the group, is expected to bring experience and poise, having spent more time in the Alabama system. Austin Mack, a highly touted transfer with a strong arm and high football IQ, presents a serious challenge, especially given his maturity and presence in the pocket. Meanwhile, freshman Keelon Russell, though less experienced, is turning heads with his athleticism and raw talent.
The trio’s off-the-field actions have perhaps made the biggest impression so far. DeBoer pointed to their efforts in organizing workouts, building camaraderie, and taking initiative to bond with teammates as critical signs of leadership. In many ways, these actions are just as important as throwing mechanics or game management skills.
As the Crimson Tide head into summer workouts and then fall camp, the quarterback competition is expected to continue. DeBoer has made it clear that no decision will be rushed, and that the process will play out naturally based on performance, leadership, and consistency.
While fans and analysts will continue to speculate about who will start under center in Week 1, DeBoer’s comments provide assurance that the program is in good hands. With three talented quarterbacks pushing each other in a constructive and respectful way, Alabama’s quarterback room appears to be a model of competitive excellence.
Whether it’s Simpson, Mack, or Russell taking the first snap of the season, one thing is certain: the foundation of teamwork and mutual respect they are building now bodes well for the Crimson Tide’s future.
