For the 2025 college football season, an Alabama expert confirms the Crimson Tide’s longstanding quarterback competition status.

As the 2025 college football season approaches, few teams in the nation are as consistently under the microscope as the Alabama Crimson Tide. Under the leadership of head coach Nick Saban, Alabama has been one of the most successful programs in college football history. Year after year, the Crimson Tide are contenders for the national championship, with talent oozing across both sides of the ball. While many positions are locked in as the team approaches spring practices, there’s one that continues to be a subject of constant debate and speculation: the quarterback position.

For much of the 2020s, Alabama has found itself embroiled in a quarterback competition that often carries heavy expectations. Whether it’s the battle between rising stars or seasoned veterans, Alabama has had its fair share of uncertainty at quarterback. And as the 2025 season draws near, this trend shows no signs of letting up. According to Alabama experts, the quarterback battle is once again set to be a pivotal storyline in Tuscaloosa.

The Legacy of Alabama’s Quarterback Position

Before delving into the 2025 quarterback race, it’s essential to understand the legacy of Alabama’s quarterback position. Over the years, Alabama has seen a handful of standout quarterbacks, many of whom have gone on to NFL success. Names like Joe Namath, Ken Stabler, and more recently, Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Jalen Hurts, have left their mark on the Crimson Tide. Each of these quarterbacks had their unique strengths, but they also faced intense competition during their time in Tuscaloosa.

From Tagovailoa’s legendary comeback in the 2017 National Championship game to Jones’s remarkable 2020 campaign that ended with a National Championship and a Heisman Trophy, the Crimson Tide have set high standards for their quarterbacks. But the constant throughout these years has been the pressure of competition. Whether it was the three-way battle between Hurts, Tagovailoa, and Jalen Hurts in 2017 or the shift from Bryce Young to the next potential leader, Alabama’s quarterback spot has always been up for grabs.

Now, as we look to 2025, this tradition of competition is set to continue. But as Alabama experts confirm, the specifics of the competition are anything but clear.

The 2025 Quarterback Race: Key Contenders

Heading into the 2025 season, there are a few key players who will likely contend for the starting quarterback spot at Alabama. While no one can predict the future, as spring practices and the offseason unfolds, these quarterbacks will have a chance to prove themselves to Nick Saban and the coaching staff.

Jalen Milroe (Redshirt Junior)

Jalen Milroe’s name has been at the forefront of many discussions surrounding Alabama’s quarterback situation, and for good reason. The athletic, dual-threat quarterback has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited time on the field. Milroe stepped in as the starting quarterback during the 2023 season in place of Bryce Young and helped the Crimson Tide secure several important wins. His dual-threat abilities make him a dynamic option for the Tide, with the ability to both pass and run the ball with ease.

However, Milroe has been inconsistent at times, particularly with his accuracy in the passing game. His mobility and raw talent have kept him in the conversation, but his development as a passer will be a key factor in whether he can secure the starting role in 2025. If Milroe can refine his skills and show more consistency, he could be the player to take Alabama back to the top of college football.

Ty Simpson (Sophomore)

Ty Simpson, a former 5-star recruit, is another quarterback that has been a topic of conversation for Alabama. He brings a different skill set to the table than Milroe, as he is more of a traditional pocket passer with excellent mechanics and strong arm strength. Simpson redshirted in 2023, but with Milroe taking the starting role, Simpson had the opportunity to learn and develop under Alabama’s coaching staff.

Simpson’s ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and display accuracy on deep throws is something that stands out. His calmness in the pocket and leadership qualities were evident in high school, and the hope is that he will be able to adjust to the speed of college football. As a former top-tier recruit, Simpson carries the weight of high expectations, and he’ll be looking to prove himself in the 2025 quarterback competition.

Eli Holstein (True Freshman)

While Holstein is a true freshman heading into the 2025 season, he is a name that could emerge in the quarterback race. Holstein, a 5-star recruit in the 2025 recruiting class, has the tools to be successful at the college level. Standing at 6’3” and possessing a strong arm, Holstein is a prototypical pocket passer with plenty of potential. His decision-making, composure, and ability to lead will be key areas for growth as he adjusts to the college game.

Although it is rare for a true freshman to take over the starting role at Alabama, there have been instances where young quarterbacks have made an early impact (e.g., Tua Tagovailoa). Holstein’s arrival in Tuscaloosa has generated significant excitement, and if he can make an immediate impression during the spring and fall camps, he could very well be in the mix for the starting role.

Other Possible Candidates

In addition to Milroe, Simpson, and Holstein, Alabama will likely have a few other quarterbacks vying for playing time. While the aforementioned names are considered the frontrunners, Alabama’s quarterback room will be competitive, as the team is always looking to bring in new talent. Players like redshirt sophomore Dylan Lonergan and freshman Dylan Rahn could find themselves in the mix depending on how they develop.

One thing that Alabama consistently produces is a deep and talented roster. Regardless of who wins the quarterback battle, Alabama is likely to have several talented signal-callers who will be ready to step in should injury or inconsistency arise.

Why the Quarterback Competition is a Tradition at Alabama

Nick Saban’s coaching philosophy has long been one of competition, especially at key positions. The quarterback position, being the most important on the field, is a constant point of contention during every offseason. The Crimson Tide have a proud tradition of developing quarterbacks and have made a habit of giving multiple players a chance to prove themselves before ultimately naming a starter. Saban believes that this healthy competition ensures that the best player takes the field and that no position is ever taken for granted.

The high-profile recruiting classes at Alabama only make the competition even more intense. Saban’s ability to attract top-tier talent from all over the country guarantees that talented quarterbacks will always be waiting in the wings, ready to challenge for the starting job.

The presence of multiple quarterbacks vying for the starting role also helps the program on the recruiting trail. High school recruits are more likely to consider Alabama when they know they’ll have a legitimate chance to compete for the starting role, no matter how many players are already on the roster.

What Alabama Needs from Its Quarterback in 2025

As the 2025 season looms large, the key to Alabama’s success will depend on the performance of its quarterback. No matter who wins the job, they will need to demonstrate several key traits to lead the team to a national championship.

First, the quarterback must be able to handle the immense pressure of playing at Alabama. The expectations are always high, and the quarterback is expected to be a leader both on and off the field. They will need to handle adversity and perform well in high-stakes situations, especially in the SEC, where the competition is fierce.

Second, the quarterback must be able to execute Alabama’s offense effectively. The Crimson Tide has long been known for a balanced offensive attack that features a strong running game paired with explosive passing plays. The quarterback must be able to manage the game, make quick decisions, and spread the ball to Alabama’s talented receiving corps. Whether it’s Milroe’s mobility or Simpson’s accuracy, the next starting quarterback must be capable of running the offense with precision.

Finally, consistency will be critical. The SEC is one of the most competitive conferences in college football, and Alabama’s schedule is never easy. To compete for a national championship, the quarterback must avoid costly mistakes, be able to read defenses effectively, and elevate his game in key moments.