For decades, Alabama has been a stomping ground for legendary players, many of whom went on to star in the NFL. Some of them include Joe Namath, Don Hutson, Bart Starr, Jalen Hurts, Derrick Henry, Quinnen Williams, and Tua Tagovailoa.
Keelon Russell is looking to join the club.
In his first year as the main quarterback, Russell has led Alabama to a 5-0 record, including 3-0 in conference play. He has proven that coach Kalen DeBoer made the right choice in picking him over Austin Mack.
The 19-year-old Russell has grabbed attention with his impressive play. ESPN's Todd McShay has been very high on the sophomore signal-caller, positing that he could be the No. 1 pick in next year's NFL Draft.
“I've given one 99 grade in my entire career. That was Andrew Luck. Keelon Russell is the first one where I’m on trajectory—in modern football, in today’s NFL—to get that only other grade of 99. Because that's what it's got to look like,” said McShay on his show.
“If he, in the next two years, refines what I'm seeing now, take your 99 and go to the league and have an awesome 20-year run there. Because that stuff's special.”
This year, Russell has thrown for 1,414 yards, 111 touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also has 24 carries for 133 yards and four touchdowns.
Article Continues BelowMcShay acknowledged that Russell can be erratic at times, but the upside is hard to ignore.
Luck, who played at Stanford, was selected by the Indianapolis Colts as the No. 1 pick in 2012. His career, however, was hampered by major injuries. He retired in 2018 and now serves as Stanford's general manager.
The Crimson Tide will face Georgia on Saturday.