TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – in a notable development for Alabama football, junior quarterback Ty Simpson has been named the starting quarterback for the 2025 season, head coach Kalen DeBoer announced following a competitive training camp. This marks a pivotal moment for Simpson, who has patiently awaited his opportunity behind Bryce Young and Jalen Milroe.
The decision comes after months of positive evaluations during spring practice and fall camp, with DeBoer consistently highlighting Simpson’s accuracy and ability too deliver a catchable ball. Simpson will lead the crimson Tide’s offense, coordinated by offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, as they embark on a crucial 2025 campaign.
Simpson’s path to the starting role wasn’t immediate. He redshirted in 2022, observing Young’s Heisman trophy-winning season firsthand. In 2024, he served as the primary backup to Milroe, gaining valuable experience without entering the transfer portal – a notable decision in the current college football landscape. He appeared in 3 games in 2024, completing 8 of 11 passes for 83 yards.
Competition for the quarterback position included sophomore Austin Mack, who joined the program after DeBoer’s arrival from Washington, and true freshman Keelon Russell, a former Five-Star Plus+ recruit from Jacksonville, Florida’s Mandarin High School. Russell was the No. 2 overall prospect in the 2025 On3 Industry Ranking. While Simpson has earned the starting nod, both Mack and Russell remain key players in the program’s future.
DeBoer emphasized Simpson’s passing ability, stating in July at SEC Media Days, “Ty is an accurate passer…he throws a catchable ball and I think that’s so key. He throws a catchable ball, one that’s easy to recieve as a receiver.”
Simpson arrives with a decorated high school resume. Hailing from Martin, Tennessee’s westview High School, he was a five-star prospect and ranked as the No. 25 overall recruit in the 2022 recruiting class according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. He threw for 8,852 yards and 97 touchdowns during his high school career, leading Westview to a 13-1 record and a Tennessee Class 6A state championship appearance in 2021.
Alabama’s offense is poised to be potent, boasting a strong receiving corps and a capable running game led by experienced back Jam Miller. The offensive line, anchored by returning starters Evan Taylor and Wilkin Formby, will be crucial in providing Simpson with protection. The team will also rely on tight end CJ Dippre, a transfer from LSU.
Simpson’s debut as the starting quarterback is scheduled for August 30th against the Florida State Seminoles in Orlando, Florida. The game, a highly anticipated matchup, will be a significant test for Simpson and the Alabama Crimson Tide as they begin their 2025 season.