Alabama QB Keelon Russell May Not Have a Long Leash

Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer elected to select Keelon Russell as his starting quarterback for the 2026 college football season, choosing to pass over Austin Mack, whom he has known since his last year at Washington in 2023.

It was certainly a major decision for DeBoer, but it didn't really surprise anyone.

While Mack has more experience and was viewed by some as the favorite based on that, most tended to agree that Russell was the more dynamic player.

Russell is a true dual threat capable of making plays with his legs while Mack is more of a traditional pocket passer who utilizes tremendous arm strength.

Not that the old-school quarterback is completely gone, but it is somewhat of a dying breed, and most coaches prefer to have the versatility of someone with escapability.

Russell certainly provides that in spades.

But just how long of a leash will the redshirt freshman have this year?

Make no mistake: this was not an easy choice by DeBoer. Yes, he named his starter well before Alabama's Sept. 5 season opener against East Carolina, but that doesn't mean DeBoer didn't agonize over the decision.

Remember: it was Mack who relieved an injured Ty Simpson in the Rose Bowl last winter, and it's not like Mack is just some fly-by-night; he is a former five-star recruit, and DeBoer was the one who recruited him over at Washington.

So let's say Russell gets off to a rough start to begin 2026. At what point does DeBoer decide to make a switch under center?

By no means is Russell's insertion as QB1 completely permanent. Sure, if he come out and lights it up from Day 1, then he will keep the job. But if he falters, Mack will be waiting to steal it from him.

The Crimson Tide do not face a ranked opponent until Oct. 10, when they host Georgia. Russell might not get aggressively tested until then. If he struggles against East Carolina and Kentucky over the first couple of weeks, I do wonder how safe his job will actually be.

There is a lot of pressure on Russell to perform. There is even more pressure on DeBoer to ensure the season goes according to plan. And let's be honest: when it comes to football in Tuscaloosa, a CFP appearance is expected.

If DeBoer, at any point, feels that Mack gives him the better chance to do that, he will almost certainly pull the trigger, even if it's early in the season.