Where CBS Sports ranks Alabama's Keelon Russell among Power 4 QBs
CBS Sports says Alabama and Kalen DeBoer have 'no choice' but to ride with this starter at quarterback in 2026.
For the second year in a row, Alabama football will be breaking in a first-year starter at quarterback this fall. While coach Kalen DeBoer has yet to name a starter , Keelon Russell is generally expected to be under center when the Crimson Tide open the 2026 season on Sept. 5 at Bryant-Denny Stadium against East Carolina.
Russell, a five-star recruit and the nation's No. 2 overall prospect from the class of 2025, redshirted last season as Ty Simpson guided Alabama to an 11-win season, a trip to the SEC Championship Game, and a College Football Playoff win and subsequent Rose Bowl appearance. Russell saw action in two games: Alabama's shutout wins over ULM in Week 2 and Eastern Illinois on Nov.
22. He completed 11 of his 15 passes for 143 yards and rushed twice for 16 yards. Russell threw an 18-yard touchdown pass to Cole Adams and another 20-yard touchdown strike in the fourth quarter against ULM.
With Russell expected to see much more meaningful playing time in 2026, CBS Sports on Wednesday unveiled its rankings for all 68 projected Power Four starting quarterbacks. Russell ranked right in the middle at No. 34.