Jalen Deboer replaced the legendary Nick Saban last year, and he’s been faced with immense pressure to maintain Alabama’s championship pedigree and storied legacy. However, his calm demeanor and focus on player development signal a promising future.
The hurdle DeBoer is currently facing this offseason is the quarterback battle. Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack competed for the starting spot in the spring, and neither gave Alabama football’s coaching staff enough confidence to name a starting quarterback. Although Simpson looks to be the favorite for QB1, this battle is not done, per DeBoer.
Deboer Shares Funny Response to Claims That Alabama QBs Are Getting Special Treatment.
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer appeared on an episode of The Next Round podcast, where he discussed his team and the quarterback situation ahead of next season. The team has three quarterbacks; any injury could make the position look thin.
DeBoer joked about his defense having to avoid the quarterbacks to protect them from injuries.
“Having four (quarterbacks) felt good ’cause I felt excellent about what they were doing with their development, Deboer said.
“But the defense has never heard stay away from the quarterback than they have this spring, and that’ll continue because we just can’t have that risk with all these guys competing.”
“The defense has never heard, ‘stay away from the quarterback’ more than they have this spring.” Kalen DeBoer on protecting the three scholarship quarterbacks on Alabama’s roster pic.twitter.com/715jKD5J7X
— The Next Round (@NextRoundLive) April 18, 2025
“It’s a healthy competition because their character is elite,” DeBoer said, emphasizing the professionalism and drive of his quarterbacks.
Alabama currently has three scholarship quarterbacks after reducing from four last year. Dylan Lonergan is hitting the transfer portal, and Jalen Milroe is heading to the NFL. All current quarterbacks are showing signs of staying and competing for the starting spot.
KEEP READING: Throwback: The Moment Alabama Football QB Ty Simpson Told Kalen DeBoer Why He Never Transferred
The next few months will be important for the quarterbacks to hone their skills and gain experience. DeBoer must keep the players healthy during practices to avoid further losses in the quarterback department. Monitoring the players’ development will also be crucial as they prepare for the new campaign.
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