Alabama naming Keelon Russell as starting quarterback ahead of 2026 opener
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Alabama has named Keelon Russell as the starting quarterback for the 2026 season opener against East Carolina, confirmed by Bama247 and CBS Sports.
- Quarterbacks coach Bryan Ellis praised Russell as a playmaker capable of leading an explosive offense, emphasizing the need to manage his young-player mistakes.
- Russell, a sophomore and the No. 2 overall prospect in the 2025 high school class, is Alabama's highest-rated signee ever according to 247 Sports.
- Last season, Russell appeared in two games, completing 11 of 15 passes for 143 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his potential early in his college career.
- Alabama will resume practice Sunday morning as it continues preparation for its Sept. 5 season opener at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
