Alabama names Keelon Russell as starting quarterback for season opener
Keelon Russell will start Alabama’s Sept. 5 opener against East Carolina after winning the quarterback competition, according to reports.
Alabama has chosen Keelon Russell to start at quarterback in its season opener against East Carolina on Sept. 5, according to reports from ESPN and CBS Sports. The decision gives the Crimson Tide a new first-string passer heading into the 2026 season.
ESPN reported that the move came from sources familiar with the team’s plans. CBS Sports said Russell beat out Austin Mack for the job.
Russell arrived at Alabama as one of the top quarterbacks in his recruiting class, and the competition for the role had been one of the team’s main preseason storylines. The opener will be Alabama’s first chance to see how the new starter handles game action.
Alabama is set to begin the season at home against East Carolina, with the quarterback choice now settled before kickoff.
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