One thing Kalen DeBoer did consistently well last season was guarding information. Alabama football fans grew frustrated with DeBoer's answers to media questions revealing little. Of course, Nick Saban never disclosed more than he considered and planned but the GOAT was such a wordsmith it didn't diminish fan interest.
Deboer was careful in 2024 not to fuel controversy. This spring he seems more relaxed than last season, but his cautious communication may not change.
Alabama Crimson Tide fans are anxious to learn which guy will be QB1. Patience will be required. There is zero incentive for Kalen DeBoer to tip his hand before next fall. Naming a new quarterback starter after spring practice would risk losing a quarterback to the Transfer Portal. Alabama needs all three of Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and Keelon Russell next fall.
As importantly, a new QB1 must prove himself as a clear, best choice to run the offense and lead his teammates. Prove of that must be tested in Fall Camp scrimmages. At least two of the Tide's QBs in a tight competition going into the first fall scrimmage would be optimum.
Until then, be wary of starting quarterback predictions. Brad Crawford, writing for 247Sports said, "Pay close attention to how reps are split over the next few weeks and how much info leaks surrounding the first-team offense in Tuscaloosa." There is nothing wrong with paying attention to leaks, but during the next few weeks don't expect leaks to be conclusive. The process will and should take longer.
Alabama Football Quarterbacks and Gaps
An Alabama Football quarterback expert recently said something worthwhile. The expert was Greg McElroy who stated, "I believe the gap exists right now between Ty Simpson and everybody else." No doubt Greg is correct but Mack and Russell have months of work and opportunity to close the gap, and possibly move past Simpson.
Another factor in delaying a QB1 decision is making FSU prepare for the skill sets multiple Alabama football quarterbacks offer. From that perspective, naming a QB1 could wait until Monday of game week one.