The Alabama Crimson Tide for the second time in three years following the departure of Bryce Young has a bonafide quarterback battle on their hands.

After Jalen Milroe emerged as the starting quarterback two years ago and held onto the job for the majority of the last two seasons, the favorite is Ty Simpson who has been with the program for longer than any of his competitors.

Austin Mack, who transferred over from Washington with Kalen DeBoer last year, served as the third string on last year’s team but never really saw any meaningful game action outside of garbage time.

The outside shot is five-star freshman sensation Keelon Russell who arrives to Tuscaloosa after a decorated high school career for Texas powerhouse Duncanville.

All three quarterbacks were seen throwing at practice on Wednesday in front of the offensive coaching staff as they get set for what should be a hotly contested battle throughout the spring:

Alabama quarterbacks Ty Simpson (15), Austin Mack (10) and Keelon Russell (12) practice under the watchful eyes of Kalen DeBoer, Ryan Grubb and Nick Sheridan 👀 #RollTide pic.twitter.com/uTAgc2HpBy

— Alabama Crimson Tide | AL.com (@aldotcomTide) March 5, 2025

With spring practice now fully upon us, the three-way competition is going to be likely the most discussed topic in Tuscaloosa for the next six months until the season gets really going.

That discussion even occurring however just means we are that much closer to the arrival of football season.