Kalen DeBoer reveals what he’s looking for in Alabama football’s next QB

Alabama football has long been a juggernaut in the college football world, consistently competing for national championships, developing NFL talent, and establishing a culture of excellence that sets the standard for college football programs. The team’s success is built on the foundation of a strong defense, a punishing running game, and, most notably, a consistent and high-performing quarterback play. Over the years, the Alabama Crimson Tide has produced legendary quarterbacks who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL. Now, with the team looking ahead to the 2025 season, the next generation of Alabama quarterbacks has a monumental task ahead of them: living up to the standard set by their predecessors.

As the quarterback position continues to be a focal point for Alabama’s future success, Kalen DeBoer, the offensive coordinator, has spoken candidly about what he is looking for in the program’s next quarterback. DeBoer, known for his offensive acumen and his ability to mold quarterbacks into game-changing players, has a clear vision of the attributes that Alabama’s next signal-caller must possess. In this article, we will dive deep into DeBoer’s expectations for the quarterback position, why they are important for Alabama’s future, and how the upcoming quarterback battle will shape the team’s chances in the 2025 season and beyond.

Kalen DeBoer’s Philosophy on Quarterback Play

Before diving into what DeBoer looks for in Alabama’s next quarterback, it’s essential to understand his philosophy on quarterback play. DeBoer has spent years coaching quarterbacks and developing offenses at the highest level. His resume includes stops at Fresno State, Washington, and other successful programs where he earned a reputation for his ability to get the most out of his quarterbacks. DeBoer is known for tailoring his offense to suit the strengths of his quarterback, allowing for flexibility while still demanding elite performance.

At Alabama, where the pressure is always high and expectations are even higher, DeBoer’s offensive approach will be centered around balance, discipline, and creativity. He recognizes that a great quarterback is not just someone with a strong arm or impressive athleticism, but also a player who can handle the mental demands of the position and execute the game plan effectively under pressure.

DeBoer’s ideal quarterback is someone who can balance the physical skills with the mental acuity needed to operate the offense at an elite level. He wants a player who can read defenses, make quick decisions, and exhibit leadership both on and off the field. A quarterback at Alabama must be able to take control of the game and execute in high-pressure situations, and DeBoer has outlined the qualities he believes are non-negotiable for any player vying for the role.

Key Qualities Kalen DeBoer Seeks in Alabama’s Next QB

1. Football IQ and Decision-Making

When it comes to the quarterback position, DeBoer emphasizes the importance of football IQ and the ability to make smart, quick decisions. “The game moves fast, and the quarterback has to be able to process information at lightning speed,” DeBoer said in a recent interview. In a high-stakes program like Alabama, the quarterback’s ability to make the right decision under pressure is crucial. Whether it’s recognizing a defensive blitz, checking into the right play at the line of scrimmage, or reading a coverage and choosing the right target, a quarterback must have a deep understanding of the game.

DeBoer looks for quarterbacks who can quickly analyze the defense and make the correct decisions without hesitation. The ability to make split-second decisions—whether it’s to dump the ball off to a running back, take a deep shot downfield, or check down to a secondary target—separates good quarterbacks from great ones. DeBoer knows that having a quarterback with high football IQ will allow Alabama’s offense to thrive in any situation, whether in high-pressure moments or routine drives.

2. Leadership and Poise

A crucial characteristic that DeBoer values in a quarterback is leadership. The quarterback is the leader of the offense, and that responsibility extends beyond just calling plays. The quarterback must be able to rally the team, keep everyone focused, and handle adversity when things don’t go as planned. Leadership is particularly important in a program like Alabama, where the stakes are always high, and the pressure is constant.

DeBoer has always spoken highly of quarterbacks who exhibit poise in tough situations. He believes that a quarterback’s ability to stay calm and composed—whether leading a game-winning drive or dealing with early adversity—is what separates successful teams from those that fall short. DeBoer is looking for a quarterback who can maintain confidence in high-pressure moments, rally the troops when needed, and be the emotional leader on and off the field.

While physical talent is important, DeBoer knows that it’s the mental side of the game that will determine whether a quarterback can thrive in Alabama’s system. The quarterback must be able to command respect from teammates and inspire confidence in others, ensuring that the offense operates at its highest level.

3. Mobility and Athleticism

Alabama has always had a strong tradition of pro-style quarterbacks, but DeBoer’s offensive system is evolving, and he values athleticism in his quarterbacks. The modern college game requires quarterbacks who can make plays with their legs in addition to their arms. In the SEC, where the competition is fierce and defenses are fast and physical, having a quarterback who can escape pressure, extend plays, and make plays on the move is invaluable.

While DeBoer appreciates the traditional pocket passer, he recognizes the added dimension that a mobile quarterback brings to the table. “The game has changed, and the ability to run the football as a quarterback can be a real asset,” DeBoer stated. With mobile quarterbacks becoming more prevalent in college football, Alabama will need someone who can utilize their legs to escape pressure and make plays when things break down.

However, DeBoer is quick to point out that mobility should not come at the expense of the quarterback’s ability to throw the ball accurately and make decisions quickly. He seeks a quarterback who can balance pocket awareness with the ability to make plays on the move, effectively keeping defenses guessing.

4. Arm Strength and Accuracy

Of course, arm strength and accuracy remain critical factors in the evaluation of any quarterback. DeBoer has a high standard for his quarterbacks when it comes to passing ability. A strong arm allows a quarterback to make all the necessary throws, whether it’s a deep ball down the sideline, a laser to fit the ball into a tight window, or a touch pass to a running back in the flat. DeBoer values quarterbacks who can make these throws consistently with velocity and precision.

However, DeBoer is equally focused on accuracy. It’s not just about how far a quarterback can throw the ball, but how precisely they can place it where only the receiver can make a play. Accuracy to all levels of the field—short, intermediate, and deep—is essential for a quarterback to thrive in DeBoer’s system.

5. Work Ethic and Commitment

Lastly, DeBoer places a premium on a quarterback’s work ethic and commitment to improvement. The quarterback is expected to be the hardest-working player on the team, setting the tone for practice and preparation. DeBoer looks for players who are willing to put in the time to improve every aspect of their game, from their footwork to their understanding of the playbook to their conditioning.

In Alabama’s high-pressure environment, it’s not enough for a quarterback to rely solely on natural talent. They must be dedicated to continual growth and improvement, and DeBoer wants to see this dedication from the very start. A quarterback who is willing to put in the effort to become better every day is one who will eventually take Alabama to the next level.