Overview
- Yea Alabama announced that quarterbacks Austin Mack and Keelon Russell signed deals to return for 2026, days after starter Ty Simpson declared for the NFL Draft.
- The returns establish a head-to-head competition to succeed Simpson as Alabama’s starting quarterback under Kalen DeBoer.
- Mack, Simpson’s 2025 primary backup, appeared in four games and went 24-of-32 for 228 yards and two touchdowns, including 11-of-16 for 103 yards in Rose Bowl relief.
- Russell, a former five-star and No. 2 recruit in the 2025 class, preserved his redshirt while completing 11-of-15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns in two appearances.
- With both quarterbacks retained, Alabama is seen as less likely to pursue a veteran transfer, and the quarterback room will also include two incoming true freshmen as the portal remains open through Jan. 16.