A new era at quarterback
Alabama’s football program is entering a pivotal offseason, searching for a new starting quarterback to lead the offense in 2026. The search has narrowed to two players who have each shown flashes of promise.
Senior Austin Mack and sophomore Keelon Russell have emerged as the top contenders, each having recorded touchdown passes in practice situations and drawing praise for their performance in recent scrimmages.
Neither has yet been entrusted with a full starting role at the collegiate level, making the competition a blend of untapped potential and limited experience.
Camp will decide the starter
Coach Kalen DeBoer has repeatedly emphasized poise as the decisive factor, noting that the team’s confidence in both candidates reflects their composure under pressure.
The upcoming fall camp will provide the staff with a month to evaluate readiness, with the season opener against East Carolina slated for 45 days from now.
During practices, decision‑making, accuracy and leadership will be scrutinized, with the goal of identifying the player who can translate limited snaps into consistent drives.
Whichever quarterback earns the nod will inherit a storied tradition at the position and will look to build on the momentum the program hopes to carry into the new season.