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Alabama Tabs Keelon Russell as Its New Starting QB

On Saturday, Alabama named sophomore Keelon Russell its starting quarterback for the 2026 season, beating out fourth-year signal caller Austin Mack. Russell is the most inexperienced starter for the Crimson Tide since Jalen Hurts in 2016.
A five-star recruit from Duncanville, Texas, Russell flipped his commitment from SMU to Alabama on June 4, 2024. He then won the Elite 11 MVP award, cementing his elite status before enrolling with the Crimson Tide.
Russell shined at the A-Day spring game, throwing four touchdowns and more than 200 yards passing. Alabama wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams said, "Keelon's come out with his head down from Jump Street," praising his work ethic.
Austin Mack will remain the backup quarterback for the second consecutive season. After losing the starting job to Ty Simpson in 2025, Mack will now spend his fourth year on the bench.
Russell told The Tuscaloosa News, "I have a spot to earn, but just to keep working hard," emphasizing his focus on winning a national championship. His disciplined mindset positions him as Alabama's quarterback for the upcoming season.

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Report: Alabama to start Keelon Russell at QB

Keelon Russell will start at quarterback for Alabama in the upcoming season, ESPN reported Saturday. The sophomore, named the No. 2 quarterback and No. 2 player in the Class of 2025 by the 247Sports composite, bested ‌senior Austin Mack in the quarte...

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Alabama tabs Keelon Russell as its new starting QB

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Keelon Russell named Alabama football starting quarterback by Kalen DeBoer

Keelon Russell has been named Alabama football's starting quarterback ahead of the 2026 season, beating out Austin Mack for the role

4 hours ago·New York, United States

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Alabama Crimson Tide Name Keelon Russell Starting Quarterback

In a move which came as a shock to no one around the Alabama team, sophomore QB Keelon Russell has been named the starting QB for the Crimson Tide to open the 2026 season. Russell, the prized recruit in the 2025 recruiting class, beat out Austin Mack. Mack who has been with Kalen DeBoer since […] The post Alabama Crimson Tide Name Keelon Russell Starting Quarterback appeared first on HEAVY.

4 hours ago·Las Vegas, United States

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