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Alabama QBs 'Lightyears Ahead' in Spring Practice
Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer impressed with progress of Austin Mack and Keelon Russell
Published on Mar. 10, 2026
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Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer is pleased with the progress of quarterbacks Austin Mack and Keelon Russell through the first two practices of spring camp. DeBoer noted that both players are "lightyears ahead" of where they were a year ago, citing their confidence, decision-making, and ability to push the Crimson Tide defense.
Why it matters
Alabama is looking to replace starting quarterback Ty Simpson, and the competition between Mack and Russell will be a key storyline throughout the spring and into fall camp. The development of the Crimson Tide's new signal-callers will be crucial as the team aims to build on its success under DeBoer.
The details
Mack and Russell, who are both vying for the starting job, have impressed DeBoer with their command of the offense and ability to make plays. The head coach praised their confidence, timing, and mobility, noting that they are putting pressure on the Alabama defense. However, neither player has significant collegiate in-game experience, so they will need to earn the trust of their teammates and settle in behind a revamped offensive line.
- Alabama began spring practice on March 7, 2026.
- The Crimson Tide held their second practice of the spring on March 9, 2026.
The players
Kalen DeBoer
The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team.
Austin Mack
A redshirt junior quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Keelon Russell
A redshirt freshman quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Ty Simpson
The former starting quarterback for the Alabama Crimson Tide, who has since graduated.
What they’re saying
“You can tell that they've had a number of reps from last year under their belt, playing with confidence, calling the play in the huddle with confidence. Both of them are lightyears ahead of where they were a year ago obviously, and they should be.”
— Kalen DeBoer, Head Coach (si.com)
“The talent level, as far as that's concerned, is not a question. It's just a matter of them building the rapport with their skill around them, making the throws when they're there, feeling the timing and trust and just feeling comfortable in the pocket. That just comes with time, feeling comfortable with your offensive line doing the job up front.”
— Kalen DeBoer, Head Coach (si.com)
What’s next
DeBoer did not provide a timeline for when Alabama plans to name a starting quarterback, but he noted that the competition between Mack and Russell will continue throughout the spring and into fall camp.
The takeaway
Alabama's quarterback competition is off to a promising start, with both Mack and Russell showing significant progress from a year ago. However, the Crimson Tide will need to continue developing their new signal-callers and building chemistry with the rest of the offense as they look to replace the departed Ty Simpson.
