In a candid assessment, Simpson praised Mack’s growth since they’ve been together in Tuscaloosa and highlighted Russell’s eagerness to learn. “Being in the room with Austin for two years, I really just saw him grow, coming in and learning from Jalen and me,” Simpson said. “And Keelon just coming in, being eager, always wanting to work, always asking questions.” He described the trio as one of the tightest QB rooms he’s been part of, crediting that cohesion for Alabama’s success.
Mack and Russell have already shown flashes of their potential. Mack, a redshirt sophomore, appeared in high-leverage moments in the CFP quarterfinal against Indiana, completing 11 of 16 passes for 103 yards and delivering a perfect 5-for-5 for 45 yards in another outing, plus a 20-yard rushing score against Eastern Illinois. Russell’s debut vs. ULM was efficient as well, going 4-of-6 for 65 yards with two touchdowns, underscoring why DeBoer views them as keepers who can carry over Alabama’s offense.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer stressed the importance of retaining Mack and Russell, emphasizing their familiarity with the system and the ability to lead the offense as Alabama rebuilds behind an evolving line. “Two guys who know our system at quarterback. Just the way, with an offensive line that’s got some leaders who are gone, two quarterbacks who can carry over from last year what we did and keep it moving forward,” DeBoer said, underscoring the value of continuity in a season expected to feature turnover across multiple units.
Simpson didn’t shy away from defending DeBoer amid external skepticism, urging fans to back the coach as the program builds toward 2026. “Don’t be a fan later,” he said. “Everybody likes to criticize him now. That dude is the exact person for the job.” He pointed to the trajectory—nine wins in Year 1, eleven in Year 2, and a CFP quarterfinal appearance—as evidence of DeBoer’s impact, and he suggested the coming years could bring even more success.
With a new quarterback, a rebuilt offensive line, and a revamped defensive scheme on the horizon, Alabama’s 2026 season remains one of transition. The Tide open the year on September 5 against East Carolina, with Mack and Russell positioned to contend for the starting job and the opportunity to extend Alabama’s competitive arc under DeBoer.
