What to know about the quarterback competition in Alabama football following a week of spring practice

As the Alabama Crimson Tide continue their preparations for the 2025 football season, one of the most intriguing storylines in Tuscaloosa revolves around the quarterback competition. After a season of transition at the quarterback position, head coach Nick Saban is tasked with finding the next leader under center to continue the program’s tradition of elite play at the quarterback position. With a week of spring practice now in the books, the competition remains fierce, and the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff is beginning to get a clearer picture of what the position battle will look like as they move forward.

While Alabama has had its share of standout quarterbacks in recent years, including Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Bryce Young, the position has been in flux since Young declared for the NFL Draft following the 2024 season. This has left Alabama with an open competition to replace their star quarterback, who led the team to several College Football Playoff appearances and a National Championship in 2020. With the spring practices now underway, it’s clear that the quarterback competition will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s success in the upcoming season.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the current quarterback situation at Alabama, examine the key contenders, and break down the factors that will determine who will be the next starting quarterback for the Crimson Tide. We’ll also explore how the coaching staff is handling the competition, what fans can expect from the offense this season, and how this battle will impact Alabama’s overall season outlook.

The Key Contenders

As of the end of the first week of spring practice, there are several names in the mix for the starting quarterback job. While it is still early in the process, the Alabama Crimson Tide coaching staff has already started to give some indications of how the competition might play out. Let’s take a look at the key players vying for the job.

1. Jalen Milroe – The Experienced Option

Jalen Milroe enters the spring as one of the most experienced quarterbacks on the roster. Having served as a backup to Bryce Young for much of the 2023 season, Milroe got his opportunity to shine in the 2024 campaign. His athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs were on full display, making him a dual-threat quarterback capable of extending plays and creating big moments with his feet.

In his limited action, Milroe showcased a strong arm and the ability to push the ball downfield. However, there were also moments where he struggled with accuracy and consistency, especially when it came to reading defenses and making quick decisions. This inconsistency will be something the coaching staff will be looking to address during the spring practices.

Milroe has the advantage of familiarity with the Alabama system and the experience of playing in big games, but he will need to improve his decision-making and accuracy in the pocket if he is to be the starting quarterback come fall. One of the key questions surrounding Milroe’s potential is his ability to develop into a more polished passer, something that will be crucial for Alabama’s success in 2025.

2. Ty Simpson – The Highly-Touted Freshman

Ty Simpson, one of the top quarterbacks in the 2024 recruiting class, is another player who is expected to be a major contender in the quarterback battle. A highly touted recruit out of Westview High School in Jackson, Tennessee, Simpson possesses elite physical traits, including a strong arm, mobility, and natural leadership skills. While Milroe may have more experience, Simpson’s high ceiling as a young player makes him an intriguing option.

Simpson’s ability to make all the throws and his poise in the pocket set him apart from many other quarterbacks, but like many freshmen, he will need to adjust to the speed and complexity of college football. Although he was not able to compete with the first-team offense during the early stages of spring practice, his talent and potential are undeniable, and it will be interesting to see how he progresses as the competition intensifies.

While Simpson’s time may come as a future starter, he could also be in the mix for the starting role right away, depending on how he develops throughout the spring and summer months. If he impresses in the upcoming scrimmages and practices, he could force Saban’s hand and make it a tough decision.

3. Tyler Buchner – The Transfer Option

Tyler Buchner, who transferred to Alabama from Notre Dame, brings a wealth of experience at the collegiate level. Buchner started several games for the Fighting Irish, and although his time at Notre Dame was marred by inconsistency and injury, his experience in high-level competition is something that could serve him well in the quarterback battle at Alabama.

Buchner has the advantage of playing in a Power 5 conference and facing top-tier defenses on a regular basis, which should make his transition into the Alabama system smoother than that of a true freshman. However, his inconsistency in passing and decision-making during his time at Notre Dame will likely be areas of concern for the coaching staff. While Buchner is still competing for the starting job, the question remains whether his skills will translate into sustained success in the SEC, where defenses are even more ferocious.

As a transfer, Buchner faces an uphill battle to earn the starting job, but his familiarity with different offensive systems and his ability to compete at the highest level could make him a strong candidate if the coaching staff feels he is the best option for the team.

How the Competition Is Unfolding

With the first week of spring practice now behind them, the coaching staff is beginning to analyze the performance of all three quarterbacks in live action. The staff, led by Nick Saban, is known for its meticulous and thorough evaluation process, and this spring will be no different. It is essential for each quarterback to show not only physical skills but also the ability to make quick, smart decisions under pressure.

In terms of who has been standing out early, reports suggest that Jalen Milroe has been taking the majority of the first-team reps. His experience with the offense gives him an edge in terms of understanding the system, and his ability to extend plays with his legs is a valuable asset for Alabama’s offensive scheme. However, Milroe has also had moments where he has struggled with accuracy and consistency, particularly on deeper throws. If he can fine-tune his mechanics and become a more reliable passer, he could hold off the competition and secure the starting job.

Ty Simpson has shown flashes of brilliance during spring practices, with many coaches and players praising his arm strength and natural talent. However, like most freshmen, he has experienced some growing pains as he adjusts to the speed and complexity of college football. Simpson’s ability to quickly adapt and learn from his mistakes will be crucial as the spring progresses. If he can impress in the upcoming scrimmages, he could put himself in a strong position to challenge for the starting role.

Tyler Buchner, while not receiving as much attention as Milroe or Simpson, has quietly put together a solid first week of spring practice. His experience in live-game situations has given him the confidence to handle various offensive looks and defensive schemes. However, his ability to remain consistent and prove that he can be a reliable option in the SEC will be the key to his success. The next few weeks of spring practice will be pivotal for Buchner as he looks to close the gap with Milroe and Simpson.

Factors That Will Decide the Competition

As the competition intensifies over the next few weeks, several key factors will play a role in determining who ultimately becomes the starting quarterback for Alabama in 2025. Let’s break down some of the most important factors that will influence Nick Saban’s decision.

1. Accuracy and Consistency

Quarterback play in the SEC requires a high level of accuracy and consistency. Teams like Alabama often play in close, hard-fought games where the margin for error is slim. The quarterback who can consistently put the ball where it needs to be—especially on third down and in critical moments—will likely earn the starting role. Whether it’s Milroe, Simpson, or Buchner, each player will need to prove that he can deliver accurate passes, especially on intermediate and deep routes, which are crucial in offensive success.

2. Poise Under Pressure

The SEC is one of the most challenging environments in college football, and the quarterback position often requires a cool head in high-pressure situations. Whether it’s a late-game drive or facing a hostile road crowd, the quarterback must be able to stay calm and make the right decisions. This is an area where experience can be valuable, which is why Milroe’s familiarity with the offense might give him an edge. However, Ty Simpson’s maturity and poise as a freshman will be something to watch, as he’s shown the ability to handle big moments in his high school career.

3. Ability to Manage the Game

Alabama’s offense often relies on the quarterback to make smart decisions, distribute the ball efficiently, and avoid turnovers. Quarterbacks who can manage the game, make the right reads, and avoid costly mistakes will have the best chance of winning the starting job. This is especially true for Alabama, a team that prides itself on controlling the clock and being efficient in all phases of the game. Milroe’s ability to run the ball and extend plays will be a factor here, but it will also be important for him to show the discipline to stay within the structure of the offense.

4. Fit with the Offensive Scheme

Alabama’s offensive scheme will play a significant role in the quarterback competition. The Crimson Tide often rely on a balanced offensive attack, combining a powerful running game with efficient passing. Each quarterback must show he can execute the offense in this manner. For Milroe, this means continuing to improve his passing game and making better decisions in the pocket. For Simpson, it’s about gaining the confidence to step into this role, while Buchner’s experience in different offensive systems may provide him an advantage in adapting quickly.