Ryan Grubb compares Keelon Russell trait to Michael Penix Jr.

Keelon Russell arguably has the highest expectations of any quarterback in Alabama‘s quarterback room heading into the 2025 college football season.

Entering the program as the No. 2 overall recruit in this year’s cycle, Crimson Tide fans have expressed excitement for what his skillset can bring the Alabama football team in the coming years. Having spent some time with him on the field this spring, new Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb revealed two NFL comparisons he’s quickly noticed from the 17-year old blue-chipper.

“One of the things I noticed, thinking about Jake Haener way back to Fresno State, he’s with the Saints now– Jake’s got a really whippy, quick release. Once he made his decision, he was very decisive with the ball. I see that with [Keelon] a lot,” Grubb explained. “And then Keelon’s vision reminds me of [Michael Penix Jr.] a little bit. He has good, wide vision with the field. He can see it even when he doesn’t know exactly what’s going on.

“He’s still working through all the processes, but he’ll get there. He’s a good player.” 

As Russell continues to make an impression on Grubb and the rest of the Alabama staff, the race to become Crimson Tide QB1 is far from over. Along with Ty Simpson, Russell will be competing against redshirt sophomore Austin Mack for the coveted starting spot.

However, Russell appears to have made a strong first impression on his offensive coordinator.

“Keelon is awesome, man,” Grubb said. “He’s very unflappable. Even when things don’t go right, and they invariably will for a freshman quarterback, I think he’s done an awesome job just kind of staying the course and being very steady, and he can make a lot of plays.”

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer spoke to the media earlier in the week and raved over the freshman’s hard work and commitment to improving himself. The 6 foot 3 Texas native has reportedly put on 17 pounds since arriving on Campus earlier this year.

Fans will get to see Russell’s skills showcased during the Crimson Tide’s annual A-Day spring game is scheduled for Saturday, April 12. The final day of spring practices, it will take place in front of Alabama fans inside Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

From there, he’ll have an entire summer to compete against Mack and Simpson with the goal of being the team’s day one starter in mind.