LATEST: Kalen DeBoer concludes Alabama QB competition following first spring practice, stating…

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The quarterback competition at Alabama was expected, but Kalen DeBoer’s response to the question about it after the first spring practice brought a chuckle from the second-year head coach.

“Did the quarterback battle settle itself today?” a reporter asked. Clearly, it hadn’t, but the question remains on everyone’s mind after Alabama’s first of 15 spring sessions. With Jalen Milroe departing for the NFL draft, Alabama has an open quarterback spot this spring. DeBoer acknowledged the quarterbacks are at different stages in their development but noted, “A few things are different procedure-wise.” He added, “They each had moments where they looked great, but there are areas they need to improve.”

DeBoer isn’t rushing to name the starter for the season opener against Florida State on August 30. In previous roles, he waited until just before the first game to finalize his choice—Michael Penix Jr. wasn’t named Washington’s starter until August 23, 2022.

Quarterbacks Ty Simpson, Tyler Mack, and Dylan Russell have 14 more practices, plus summer and fall camp, to prove themselves. Simpson, the most experienced, has an edge in game reps, while Mack brings familiarity with DeBoer’s system after transferring from Washington, and Russell was DeBoer’s first QB commit.

While the starter may not be named soon, DeBoer emphasized the winner must be someone who can command the huddle, deliver accurate throws, and instill confidence in the team. “It starts with belief,” DeBoer said.