Overview
- Yea Alabama, the program’s NIL collective, announced both quarterbacks signed agreements to return for the 2026 season.
- The moves create an in-house competition to replace Ty Simpson, who declared for the 2026 NFL Draft earlier this week.
- Austin Mack served as Simpson’s primary backup in 2025 and, after entering in the Rose Bowl, went 11-of-16 for 103 yards; he finished the season 24-of-32 for 228 yards and two touchdowns.
- Keelon Russell, a former five-star recruit, appeared in two games as a freshman and completed 11-of-15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns.
- With both quarterbacks returning, Alabama’s need to add a transfer at the position lessens, though the portal remains open until January 16.