Kalen DeBoer names Keelon Russell as Alabama’s starting quarterback: Source

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer has named sophomore Keelon Russell as the starting quarterback for the Crimson Tide's season opener against East Carolina on September 5. Russell, a five-star recruit in the 2025 recruiting cycle, beat out senior Austin Mack for the role despite the two players combining for just 50 career passing attempts. Mack had more experience in DeBoer's system, having played under him at Washington and Alabama, but Russell was seen as the higher-upside prospect.