In 2025, Kalen DeBoer Believes That Alabama Football Quarterback Ty Simpson Will Have an Opportunity: A Deep Dive into a Key Season Ahead
The 2025 college football season promises to be one of transformative opportunities, especially at Alabama, where the quarterback position is a topic of great anticipation. With the departure of Jalen Milroe, Alabama is set to begin a new chapter under the leadership of head coach Kalen DeBoer. One of the most significant questions surrounding the Crimson Tide program is who will emerge as the starting quarterback. In the eyes of Coach DeBoer, Ty Simpson is positioned to seize this opportunity, and his growth in the coming months could shape the future of Alabama football.
Ty Simpson’s Early Years at Alabama
Ty Simpson came to Alabama as one of the most highly-rated quarterbacks in the 2022 recruiting class, bringing with him a blend of raw talent and tremendous upside. At 6-foot-2 and 225 pounds, Simpson offers a balance of size, mobility, and arm strength that made him a five-star prospect out of West Tennessee.
Upon his arrival in Tuscaloosa, Simpson joined a quarterback room filled with established talent, including Bryce Young, who would go on to become the first overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Simpson spent his early days learning and developing behind Young and Jalen Milroe. While his opportunities on the field were limited in his first two seasons, they provided valuable exposure to Alabama’s high-level offensive schemes and a chance to grow in a competitive environment.
In 2023, Simpson appeared in several games, including mop-up duty and some spot starts, helping him familiarize himself with the speed and complexity of SEC football. He demonstrated flashes of promise, showcasing his ability to process defenses and his knack for making plays with both his arm and legs.
The Quarterback Landscape in 2025
The 2024 season saw Alabama experience significant changes at the quarterback position. With Jalen Milroe declaring for the NFL Draft, the door was wide open for a new leader to take the reins of the Crimson Tide offense. This left Simpson as one of the frontrunners for the role. Coach Kalen DeBoer, hired in 2024 to bring new energy to Alabama’s offense, expressed his belief that Simpson has the tools necessary to lead the program into the future.
“Simpson has an incredible opportunity ahead of him,” DeBoer said, “It’s about being ready, taking control of the offense, and trusting in his preparation. There’s a lot of work ahead, but Ty is a talented player. He knows what it takes to succeed at this level.”
Coach DeBoer’s comments underline a key theme: the opportunity is there, but it’s ultimately up to Simpson to make the most of it. His experience in the program gives him a solid foundation, but with new players and new faces entering the picture, Simpson will need to elevate his play to secure the starting job.
DeBoer’s Vision for Alabama’s Offense
DeBoer, known for his offensive acumen, has long been regarded as an innovator who can mold quarterbacks into stars. His offense at previous stops—including Fresno State—was dynamic and effective, utilizing a mix of traditional pro-style concepts while incorporating elements of spread and up-tempo play. As Alabama’s new head coach, DeBoer has the ability to craft an offensive system that plays to Simpson’s strengths, allowing him to thrive while also developing a high-powered unit.
For Simpson, this means not just a chance to shine, but a system that suits his unique talents. DeBoer’s offense has historically favored quarterbacks with mobility, something Simpson possesses in spades. He is capable of extending plays with his legs, keeping defenses on their toes while also being able to make the necessary throws downfield. This dual-threat ability is something that DeBoer will likely tap into, providing Simpson with the versatility needed to thrive in both the passing and running games.
Simpson’s potential in this system aligns well with the vision DeBoer has for Alabama football. The coach sees Simpson as a player who can take the offense to new heights, but also one who needs time to adjust to the increased responsibility. The opportunity to develop under DeBoer’s guidance could be crucial for Simpson as he looks to make a lasting impact on the field.
The Competition: Austin Mack and Keelon Russell
While Simpson is widely regarded as the favorite to start in 2025, the competition for the starting quarterback role remains open. Austin Mack, a transfer from Washington, brings an intriguing skill set to the table. Mack, who has had some starting experience at the collegiate level, possesses the arm talent and decision-making ability that makes him a credible challenger to Simpson.
Additionally, Alabama’s recruiting class includes Keelon Russell, another highly-rated quarterback prospect who has already impressed during his time in Tuscaloosa. Russell’s ability to make all the throws and his football IQ make him a potential future star in the program. If he can adjust to the speed of the game quickly, he could be a serious contender for the starting job.
While both Mack and Russell present viable options, it’s clear that Simpson’s familiarity with Alabama’s offensive system and his experience in the SEC could give him an edge. That being said, the competition will remain tight as spring practices unfold, and any of the three quarterbacks could claim the starting spot with the right performance.
Simpson’s Skill Set and Room for Growth
Ty Simpson has already proven that he possesses the physical tools necessary to succeed at the highest level of college football. His ability to throw the football with velocity and accuracy, combined with his athleticism, makes him a dangerous weapon. However, like all quarterbacks, he must continue refining certain aspects of his game to become a complete player.
One area that Simpson will need to focus on is his decision-making. During his limited playing time, he sometimes struggled with making quick, decisive reads under pressure. The SEC is known for its physical and fast-paced defenses, and Simpson will need to improve his ability to read defenses pre-snap, process information rapidly, and make the right choices under duress.
Additionally, Simpson will benefit from further developing his leadership and poise in crucial moments. As the quarterback, he will be the face of the offense, and DeBoer will look to him to lead the charge, especially in high-stakes situations. Simpson’s ability to maintain composure and keep his teammates engaged and confident will be key to his success as the starting quarterback.
What 2025 Could Look Like for Simpson
If Ty Simpson can rise to the occasion in 2025, he has the chance to become one of the premier quarterbacks in the nation. With DeBoer at the helm, Alabama’s offense should be more dynamic than in years past, providing Simpson with the tools to succeed. The coaching staff will aim to put Simpson in positions where he can excel, utilizing his athleticism and arm strength while allowing him to develop as a leader.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Simpson’s leadership in the locker room and his ability to manage the game will be equally important. As Alabama looks to remain atop the college football hierarchy, Simpson’s ability to drive the team forward will be paramount. His success could also have a ripple effect, helping the Crimson Tide recruit top-tier talent for the future while maintaining their status as a powerhouse program.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Ty Simpson
The 2025 season is shaping up to be a defining year for Ty Simpson. Coach Kalen DeBoer’s belief in him is clear, but the ultimate success will depend on Simpson’s ability to deliver when given the opportunity. With the support of a talented roster and the guidance of a coach known for developing quarterbacks, Simpson has everything he needs to step into a leadership role.
Alabama football is no stranger to quarterback success. Whether Simpson can continue that legacy will be one of the most intriguing storylines of the 2025 season. If he can rise to the challenge, Ty Simpson may just be the next great quarterback in Alabama’s storied history.