ESPN Said : The selection of Ty Simpson as Alabama’s starting quarterback sets a new personal record for Kalen DeBoer.

ESPN Said : The selection of Ty Simpson as Alabama’s starting quarterback sets a new personal record for Kalen DeBoer.

In a surprising yet decisive move, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer has named Ty Simpson as the starting quarterback for the 2025 season—setting a personal record for the earliest QB1 announcement of his head coaching career. Known for his typically methodical and drawn-out quarterback evaluations, DeBoer’s prompt decision signals both his confidence in Simpson and a shift in his coaching approach as he enters his second year at the helm of the Crimson Tide.

Simpson, a redshirt junior, has been in the mix for the starting job for several seasons. After backing up Bryce Young and later competing with Jalen Milroe and others, Simpson’s persistence and growth have finally paid off. His grasp of DeBoer’s offensive system, leadership qualities, and improved consistency in spring and summer practices set him apart during camp.

What makes this announcement historic for DeBoer is not just the decision itself but the timing. Throughout his career—including previous stints at Washington and Fresno State—DeBoer has been known to take quarterback battles well into fall camp, often withholding his final decision until just days before the season opener. This year, however, he made the call by early August, well ahead of Alabama’s Week 1 game. For a coach who values thorough evaluation, naming a starter this early reflects a clear shift in philosophy—and a strong belief in Simpson’s readiness.

DeBoer praised Simpson’s offseason improvements during his press conference: “Ty has shown tremendous growth in leadership, command of the offense, and decision-making. He’s earned the respect of this locker room, and more importantly, he’s earned this job.”

Insiders at Alabama’s practices report that Simpson has been consistently sharp during drills, showing better pocket awareness and improved accuracy on intermediate throws—an area that had previously been a concern. He’s also reportedly developed a strong rapport with returning wideouts Kendrick Law and Kobe Prentice, which bodes well for Alabama’s passing attack.

The decision also clarifies Alabama’s offensive identity moving forward. DeBoer, known for his creative play-calling and quarterback-friendly systems, now has a confident, system-savvy signal-caller who can execute his vision without hesitation. This stability could be the foundation for a bounce-back season after a transitional year under new leadership in 2024.

The early announcement also benefits the team from a chemistry standpoint. With Simpson entrenched as the starter, the offense can gel and focus on execution, avoiding the distractions and uncertainties that often come with prolonged QB competitions.

While the move caught some fans off guard, the reaction has been largely positive. Many see Simpson as a high-upside player who simply needed time to develop. Now, with DeBoer’s confidence behind him, Simpson has the platform—and the pressure—to lead Alabama back to the SEC Championship conversation.

By naming Ty Simpson the starting quarterback weeks ahead of schedule, Kalen DeBoer has not only broken his own personal record but also made a bold statement: the Tide’s future starts now, and Simpson is the one to lead it.

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