Sophomore Keelon Russell has been named Alabama’s starting quarterback for the 2026 season, beating out senior Austin Mack for the job.
16powers.com
Keelon Russell was the No. 2 quarterback and No. 2 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting class and was the 2024–25 Gatorade National Player of the Year. He saw limited action last season, throwing for 143 yards and two touchdowns.
That’s important for the SEC material we’ve been working on because anything that still lists Austin Mack as Alabama’s projected starter needs to be changed to Keelon Russell. Alabama opens against East Carolina on September 5.
NEW: Alabama has named Keelon Russell its starting QB, @Clowfb and @PeteNakos report🐘
Russell was a Five-Star Plus+ recruit in the 2025 class. https://t.co/tLUhgRyT1q pic.twitter.com/JlaTfJblBs
— On3 (@On3) August 22, 2026
The pocket movement for Keelon (Kee-Lin) Russell just looks different.
This is what really elevates him game. Being able to slide the pocket, move his body, or slip pressure while keeping his eyes downfield and mentally processing.
His pocket presence is certainly reminiscent… pic.twitter.com/2oBoZzoYhz
— Waaaay Offsides Cotton (@AlafrigginBama) August 23, 2026
