Kalen DeBoer’s First Pick in 2024 Won’t Look Like Ryan Grubb’s Next Quarterback at Alabama
The transition from Nick Saban to Kalen DeBoer as Alabama’s head coach has been one of the most significant storylines in college football. With it comes a shift in philosophy, especially at the quarterback position. DeBoer’s first quarterback selection in 2024 will likely differ from what new Alabama offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb envisions for the Crimson Tide’s future. The contrast in their choices highlights a fundamental shift in offensive strategy, personnel preferences, and program direction.
Kalen DeBoer’s Quarterback Choice for 2024
Kalen DeBoer, known for his offensive acumen, is making calculated decisions as he builds his first Alabama team. His selection of a starting quarterback is one of the most crucial choices for his debut season. As it stands, the frontrunner for the job is Jalen Milroe, Alabama’s returning starter from 2023. While there has been speculation about competition in the quarterback room, DeBoer’s commitment to Milroe reflects his trust in experience and playmaking ability.
Why Jalen Milroe?
Milroe emerged as Alabama’s starting quarterback in 2023 and showcased his elite athleticism and deep-ball ability. His development throughout the season solidified his position as a capable SEC quarterback, despite occasional struggles with consistency. DeBoer appears inclined to stick with Milroe for several reasons:
- Experience in the SEC: Having already played in high-pressure environments, Milroe provides stability and leadership.
- Dynamic Playmaking: His ability to extend plays and use his legs makes him a constant threat, adding a layer of unpredictability to the offense.
- Improvement in Passing: While not perfect, Milroe made strides in his passing game, particularly in hitting deep routes and refining his mechanics.
- Roster Continuity: Changing quarterbacks in a transition year could disrupt team chemistry, and Milroe’s rapport with the current roster is a valuable asset.
Potential Challenges for Milroe Under DeBoer
Despite Milroe’s advantages, he does not perfectly fit DeBoer’s ideal quarterback mold. DeBoer’s system thrives on quarterbacks with a quick release, precision accuracy, and the ability to distribute the ball efficiently in an up-tempo, spread-style offense. Milroe’s strengths lie more in explosive plays rather than methodical precision, which could create challenges in adapting to DeBoer’s play-calling.
Nonetheless, DeBoer is likely to tailor his scheme to Milroe’s skill set in the short term, allowing him to maximize his strengths while working on areas of improvement. However, this could be a temporary solution as Alabama’s offense begins evolving under new leadership.
Ryan Grubb’s Vision for Alabama’s Next Quarterback
While DeBoer is focused on the present, Ryan Grubb, Alabama’s new offensive coordinator, may have different ideas about the future of the Crimson Tide’s quarterback position. Grubb, who followed DeBoer from Washington to Alabama, was instrumental in developing Michael Penix Jr. into a Heisman Trophy finalist. His ideal quarterback is a strong-armed, accurate passer who can process defenses quickly and deliver the ball efficiently in a high-powered passing attack.
Enter Austin Mack?
One intriguing prospect who fits Grubb’s offensive philosophy is Austin Mack, a redshirt freshman who originally committed to Washington under DeBoer and Grubb. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 236 pounds, Mack possesses the prototypical frame of a pocket passer. Unlike Milroe, who relies on mobility, Mack’s strengths lie in his ability to stand tall in the pocket, make quick reads, and deliver precise throws.
Why Mack Could Be Alabama’s Future QB1
- Familiarity with Grubb’s System: Having been recruited by Grubb and DeBoer, Mack already understands the core concepts of their offensive scheme.
- Pocket Presence and Arm Talent: His natural ability to dissect defenses and throw with accuracy makes him an ideal fit for Alabama’s future passing attack.
- Long-Term Development: Given his youth, Mack could be groomed into the quarterback that perfectly embodies Grubb’s offensive philosophy.
Mack may not be ready to take over in 2024, but his presence in the program suggests that the coaching staff is already thinking ahead to a post-Milroe era.
How Their Philosophies Differ
1. Quarterback Mobility vs. Pocket Precision
- Milroe’s Strengths: Athleticism, extending plays, rushing ability.
- Mack’s Strengths: Pocket passing, accuracy, field vision.
DeBoer’s 2024 decision leans toward mobility, while Grubb’s long-term vision likely prioritizes a pure pocket passer.
2. Immediate Success vs. Long-Term Development
- DeBoer needs a quarterback who can win immediately in the SEC.
- Grubb may be willing to invest time developing a young passer for the future.
3. Scheme Adaptability
- DeBoer will likely modify his offensive scheme to accommodate Milroe’s strengths.
- Grubb prefers to recruit and mold quarterbacks to fit his established system.
Potential Quarterback Battle in 2025
If Milroe starts in 2024, the real intrigue begins in 2025. With Milroe likely headed to the NFL or facing competition from younger players, a quarterback battle could emerge between Mack and other recruits.
Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class includes several high-profile quarterback prospects, and the addition of a transfer portal quarterback is always a possibility. If Grubb remains as Alabama’s offensive coordinator, the Crimson Tide could shift toward a more pass-heavy approach, signaling the rise of a quarterback like Mack.
Conclusion: A Transitional Year for Alabama’s QB Room
Kalen DeBoer’s first quarterback choice in 2024 will look quite different from what Ryan Grubb may envision for Alabama’s future. While DeBoer is expected to roll with Jalen Milroe for his experience, leadership, and dual-threat ability, Grubb’s long-term preference for a pocket passer could shape Alabama’s offensive identity moving forward.
The 2024 season will serve as a bridge between the old and the new, with Milroe leading the charge while younger quarterbacks like Austin Mack develop behind the scenes. Regardless of who takes the reins in 2025, one thing is clear: Alabama’s quarterback evolution under Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb will be one of the most compelling storylines in college football.