Alabama is gearing up for a significant transition in 2025 as they prepare to welcome a new quarterback under center. This change comes on the heels of Jalen Milroe’s decision to turn pro this offseason, leaving the Crimson Tide with some intriguing options in the quarterback room.
Quarterback Competition Heats Up
As the Crimson Tide looks ahead, the competition for the starting quarterback position is heating up. The current roster includes former five-star recruit Ty Simpson, who has had some playing time in the past couple of seasons. Joining him are former Washington transfer Austin Mack and Five-Star Plus+ prospect, incoming true freshman Keelon Russell. With this mix of talent, Alabama fans are eager to see who will emerge as the leader of the offense.
Experience and Potential
While the talent is undeniable, head coach DeBoer has expressed concern about the lack of experience in the quarterback room. “Probably the biggest thing is there’s just not a lot of snaps that have been taken on a college football field,” he noted. However, he remains optimistic about the skill sets each player brings to the table. “I feel like the skillset’s there; there are very strong strengths that we have, and I’m excited about them being similar in a lot of ways.”
Simpson, having played three seasons in Tuscaloosa, is considered the favorite to win the job heading into spring camp. He has accumulated 381 career passing yards and has proven to be a dual-threat quarterback, totaling three rushing touchdowns over the past two seasons. His experience could be a crucial factor as he vies for the starting role.
What Each Quarterback Brings
Mack had a brief but effective stint last season, completing 2 of his 3 passes for 39 yards and a touchdown. His performance, though limited, showcased his potential as a reliable option. Meanwhile, Russell, the incoming freshman, brings a fresh perspective and raw talent that could shake up the competition. Unless DeBoer decides to bring in another name during the spring transfer window, these three quarterbacks will be the primary contenders for the coveted starting position.
DeBoer has been impressed with how the quarterbacks have been working together. “They all three just work together, and that’s really led to workouts already that they’re running that sound like they’ve been very efficient and got a lot of work done,” he said. This camaraderie could be essential as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Simpson’s Leadership Role
Simpson’s leadership qualities have not gone unnoticed. DeBoer praised him, stating, “You certainly appreciate what he’s done. Just continued to work on what he can control, and that’s himself.” Simpson has been proactive in building relationships and getting ready for this opportunity. He’s not just stepping up as a leader; he’s gearing up to take on the responsibilities of being the starting quarterback.
Looking Ahead to the Senior Bowl
As the team prepares for spring camp, DeBoer will take some time to scout talent at the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL. He will be observing Jalen Milroe, along with teammates like tight end C.J. Dippre, defensive lineman Tim Smith, and punter James Burnip. This event is crucial for evaluating potential NFL prospects, and it will be interesting to see how Milroe performs on this stage.
Kickoff for the Senior Bowl is set for Saturday, Feb. 1 at 2:30 p.m. ET, and fans will be able to watch live on the NFL Network. This game will not only showcase Milroe but also provide a glimpse into the future of Alabama football as they look to solidify their quarterback situation.
Anticipation Builds for Spring Camp
As the days draw closer to spring camp, excitement is palpable among Alabama fans. Who will emerge as the starting quarterback? Will it be the seasoned Simpson, the promising Mack, or the fresh talent in Russell? Each player brings unique strengths and potential to the table, making this competition one of the most intriguing storylines for the Crimson Tide in the upcoming season.
The coaching staff is undoubtedly eager to see how these players develop and compete. The foundation they build during spring practices will be vital as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season. With a storied program like Alabama, the stakes are always high, and the pressure is on to find the right leader for the offense.
In the world of college football, change is constant, and the ability to adapt is key. As Alabama navigates this transition, fans can expect thrilling developments and fierce competition as they strive for excellence on the field. The journey to find the next great quarterback is just beginning, and it promises to be an exciting ride for everyone involved.
