Alabama’s quarterback competition remains one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Crimson Tide as the 2026 season approaches. However, after the team completed its first preseason scrimmage, head coach Kalen DeBoer made it clear that fans should not expect an immediate decision.
Alabama held its first scrimmage on Thursday, Aug. 13, working for more than two hours and going through more than 100 plays inside Bryant-Denny Stadium. The session was closed to the media, making DeBoer’s comments afterward particularly important.
When asked whether the scrimmage brought him closer to choosing a starting quarterback, DeBoer’s answer was straightforward: “I don’t feel closer.”
That means the battle between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell remains wide open.
The two quarterbacks entered preseason camp without either player clearly separating himself. Offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb previously described the competition as an even battle, making the scrimmages especially important. Alabama has another preseason scrimmage scheduled for Aug. 20, and that could be the moment when the coaching staff finally gets enough information to make its decision.
Russell reportedly generated plenty of attention during the first scrimmage. Some observers viewed the sophomore as the standout quarterback, with an NFL scout reportedly favoring Russell and pointing to his natural playmaking ability. Mack, however, continued to show improvement as the scrimmage progressed.
Still, DeBoer emphasized that neither quarterback had done enough to end the competition.
One area the coaching staff will continue monitoring is how quickly the quarterbacks start. DeBoer indicated that both players need to perform more efficiently early in the action, rather than needing time to settle into the scrimmage.
That evaluation goes beyond simply counting touchdowns or explosive plays. Alabama needs its next quarterback to make good decisions, command the offense, protect the football and consistently put the team in favorable situations. Those traits could ultimately determine whether Mack’s experience wins out or Russell’s upside becomes too difficult to ignore.
The quarterback situation isn’t Alabama’s only concern. DeBoer also discussed the offensive line, which he acknowledged still has work to do. The Tide has invested heavily in rebuilding that unit, but the first scrimmage showed there is still room for improvement.
The running game also received attention, although injuries to running backs AK Dear and EJ Crowell created another storyline coming out of the scrimmage. Dear reportedly impressed before suffering an injury, while Crowell was dealing with a minor setback.
For Alabama, the next week could be decisive. The second scrimmage should provide another opportunity for Mack and Russell to separate themselves before the Crimson Tide begins turning its attention toward the season opener against East Carolina on Sept. 5.
For now, however, DeBoer isn’t ready to name his quarterback.
And if the first scrimmage is any indication, Alabama’s QB battle is going to take at least a little longer to resolve.
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