Alabama’s Keelon Russell makes resounding case for starting QB job at spring game

After falling short of the College Football Playoff two years ago and getting thumped by Indiana in the CFP quarterfinals last season, Alabama will be expected to genuinely contend for a national championship in Kalen DeBoer’s third campaign as head coach. Many fans are hopeful that quarterback Keelon Russell can push the Crimson Tide back into the land of elites moving forward, but first, he has to win the starting job.

The former No. 2 ranked recruit (behind only Michigan’s Bryce Underwood) is eager to lead the offense after redshirting in 2025. He is competing with Washington transfer and redshirt junior Austin Mack for the top spot on the QB depth chart, but his performance in Alabama’s spring football game could give him the early lead.

Russell completed 21-of-33 passes for 240 yards with four touchdowns and one interception. While Mack’s 6-foot-6 frame and experience on the sidelines make him an appealing QB1 option for the 2026-27 campaign, the upside of having a dual threat under center is undeniable. The 6-foot-3, 201-pounder is generating a ton of praise after dazzling Tuscaloosa on Saturday.

“Keelon Russell was not the first quarterback on the field at A-Day, but the buzz following the spring game is around the former five-star recruit,” On3’s Pete Nakos writes. “Austin Mack was limited and was ‘dinged up,’ according to Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer. Russell is in his second offseason at Alabama and looked the part on Saturday. “DeBoer won’t be naming a starting quarterback for the foreseeable future, but Russell had the better A-Day.”

High-end prospects are burdened with overwhelming pressure, particularly if they represent Alabama football, but all Russell can do is clear checkpoints. He is off to a good start in his first official season with the Crimson Tide.

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