DeBoer Picks Russell Over Mack | Alabama Crimson Tide Football News

Kalen DeBoer shocks no one by naming redshirt freshman Keelon Russell the starting quarterback for 2026, despite Austin Mack’s experience and familiarity — a move favoring Russell’s dynamic, dual-threat upside over Mack’s traditional pocket passing. Though Mack proved himself in a high-stakes Rose Bowl appearance, DeBoer’s gamble hinges on Russell’s early-season performance. With Alabama’s first ranked test not until October against Georgia, Russell’s window to prove he can deliver playoff-caliber results is narrow — and the pressure is mounting. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4e9474730b3dec19