Alabama’s QB room just flipped the script — Austin Mack and Keelon Russell are officially back for the 2026 season, and the battle for the starting job is on

With Ty Simpson declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft earlier this week after a solid season as the starter (3,567 yards, 28 TDs), the Crimson Tide suddenly faced a major void at quarterback. Simpson’s departure opened the door wide, and Alabama’s NIL collective, Yea Alabama, delivered the big news on January 9: both backups are staying put. This isn’t just retention — it’s the setup for one of the most anticipated QB competitions in the SEC this offseason.

 

Austin Mack, entering his redshirt junior year, brings the edge of experience. The veteran followed head coach Kalen DeBoer from Washington, served as the primary backup in 2025, and stepped up in the Rose Bowl after Simpson’s injury, completing passes efficiently and leading a scoring drive in garbage time. At 6-foot-something with poise, size, and calm leadership from limited but meaningful snaps (including 228 yards and 2 TDs across four games), Mack represents the battle-tested option ready to step into the spotlight.

Then there’s Keelon Russell, the former five-star phenom (the highest-rated QB recruit in Alabama history) entering his redshirt freshman/sophomore campaign. Despite limited action in 2025 (just two appearances, 143 yards, 2 TDs), Russell flashed elite arm talent, quick release, and athleticism — traits that had scouts comparing him to pros like Michael Penix Jr. His upside is massive, and many fans already see him as the future, hyping his cannon arm as the game-changer against tough SEC defenses.

The showdown between Mack’s veteran savvy and Russell’s explosive potential promises fireworks. Both showed willingness to compete rather than bolt via the transfer portal, signaling confidence in themselves and DeBoer’s system. They’ll be joined by true freshmen like Jett Thomalla and Tayden Kaawa, adding depth, but the real intrigue is the head-to-head battle between the two returners. Fans are already split — one side leans toward Mack’s reliability, while the other insists Russell’s star power makes it inevitable.

This competition could define Alabama’s 2026 outlook. A smooth transition under DeBoer might keep the Tide contending for titles, with a dynamic offense that thrives on QB play. Expect intense spring practices, heated fall camp debates, and a decision that will have Tuscaloosa buzzing all summer.