Who does Alabama lean on to replace Ty Simpson at quarterback?

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He started as a five-star quarterback from Westview High School in northern Tennessee, but now Ty Simpson has made it to the National Football League.

Why Austin Mack could be the answer for Alabama in 2026

The former five-star for the University of Alabama was selected at No. 13 overall on Thursday in the opening round of the NFL Draft. He goes to the Los Angeles Rams where he can learn from Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford, following a season where he started 15 games for the Crimson Tide. Simpson won a Southeastern Conference Championship as a redshirt freshman under Nick Saban and guided the Tide to the College Football Playoff as its starter in 2025.

He made second-team All-SEC for his efforts, but who will Alabama lean on to replace him?

Austin Mack

Austin Mack enters his fourth season in the Kalen DeBoer/Ryan Grubb system this fall.

The 6-foot-6, 232-pounder had several great moments in spring practice, yet he was outshined inside Bryant-Denny Stadium on A-Day.  Mack was the primary backup quarterback to Ty Simpson last year and got the nod when Simpson suffered an injury against Indiana.

He completed 24-of-32 passes for 228 yards and two touchdowns in four games.

Former Alabama QB discusses the gap between Keelon Russell and Austin Mack

Mack also showcased his athleticism in rushing for a touchdown. He brings a lot of experience within the system, but he needs to clearly separate in preseason camp to earn the job.

Keelon Russell

Keelon Russell showed in spring practice that he’s closed the gap.

He understands this offense in year two and his God-given skill set is undeniable.

The redshirt freshman had an impeccable spring and created the narrative among fans that he should be the starting quarterback. Alabama supporters watched him toss five touchdowns in the spring game, while displaying the ability to extend plays on the move and run the football.

Russell, a former five-star, is incredibly gifted as a quarterback.

This fall will show us if he can finish his work by snatching the starting job.

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Stephen M. Smith is a team writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.