Alabama quarterback coach debate surrounding Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack, with a focus on their progress and who might emerge as the future leader for the Crimson Tide:

Alabama quarterback coach debate surrounding Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack, with a focus on their progress and who might emerge as the future leader for the Crimson Tide:

 

As Alabama transitions into the Kalen DeBoer era, one of the most closely watched storylines is the quarterback room. With Jalen Milroe established as the 2024 starter, attention has shifted toward the next generation: Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack. Each brings a unique skill set and developmental arc, fueling internal debate among the Crimson Tide staff—particularly among QB coaches—over who might be the true future of the program.

**Ty Simpson: Veteran Patience or Plateau?**

Simpson, a redshirt sophomore, is the most experienced of the three. A five-star recruit in the class of 2022, Simpson has had time to sit behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe, learning under two different offensive regimes. His athleticism, leadership, and competitive drive have been praised since arriving in Tuscaloosa. But despite flashes of potential, there’s a lingering question: has Simpson progressed enough to justify QB1 confidence beyond Milroe?

Sources close to the program suggest Simpson has shown improved poise in the pocket this offseason and has a firm grasp on DeBoer’s system. However, there’s a sense that his development may have plateaued. While steady, his growth hasn’t been exponential—opening the door for the younger talents to close the gap.

**Keelon Russell: Rising Freshman, Quick Study**

Keelon Russell, a 2025 recruit who flipped from SMU to Alabama after DeBoer took over, has quickly become a name to watch. Despite being a true freshman, Russell’s ability to process plays, anticipate pressure, and deliver accurate passes has reportedly impressed coaches during summer workouts and early camp sessions.

What makes Russell stand out is his fit in DeBoer’s offense. Built more like a traditional pocket passer with mobility, he mirrors the mold of Michael Penix Jr., who thrived under DeBoer at Washington. Some insiders believe that if Russell continues his current trajectory, he could be pushing for real snaps as early as 2026.

**Austin Mack: High Upside, Raw Tools**

Then there’s Austin Mack, the reclassified former Washington commit who followed DeBoer to Alabama. At just 17 years old, Mack is the youngest and rawest of the group. He has elite arm talent and mobility, but he’s still adjusting to the speed and complexity of SEC-level football.

Coaches reportedly love Mack’s ceiling. He has the physical tools to be a future star, but there’s consensus he’ll need a year or two of seasoning. Still, his natural ability and familiarity with DeBoer’s offensive principles give him an edge in terms of long-term projection.

**The Verdict: No Clear-Cut Favorite Yet**

Right now, the quarterback coach room is divided. Simpson offers stability. Russell provides an exciting, rapidly developing option. Mack brings a high-upside future with more time required. Who takes over post-Milroe will depend on in-game performance, development under DeBoer’s system, and who embraces leadership roles fastest.

For now, Alabama fans can take solace in one fact: the future at quarterback looks deep, competitive, and full of promise.