AJ McCarron Names Ty Simpson Frontrunner for Alabama QB Starting Job

The Alabama Crimson Tide's quarterback competition for the 2025 season is intensifying following the departure of Jalen Milroe, with Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Austin Mack vying for the starting role. Former Alabama quarterback and two-time national champion AJ McCarron has publicly endorsed Simpson as the frontrunner, emphasizing Simpson's maturity, talent, and leadership qualities, as well as his readiness to handle the pressure unique to Alabama football. McCarron, who went through a similar quarterback battle in 2011, has had direct conversations with Simpson about managing expectations and the mental demands of being Alabama’s starting quarterback. Despite Simpson's relatively limited game experience, his accuracy and ability to distribute the ball downfield have been highlighted as key strengths, while analysts continue to debate whether he can fully hold off the challenges posed by Russell and Mack. Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer appears to be leaning toward Simpson, as indicated by offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, signaling a potential end to the quarterback uncertainty. The Crimson Tide remains a strong contender for the 2025 national championship, with the quarterback decision poised to be a defining factor in their success.