This spring, Qua Russaw released a list of Alabama football leaders. A Crimson Tide quarterback was also selected.

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program is one of the most storied and successful programs in the history of college football. Year in and year out, Alabama remains a powerhouse, consistently competing for national championships, conference titles, and producing elite talent. Behind every great team is an equally strong leadership structure, both on and off the field. This spring, a significant leadership list was released by Qua Russaw, one of the rising figures in the Alabama football community, shedding light on the athletes and individuals who are expected to shape the future of the program. Among those recognized was a quarterback, a position synonymous with leadership, poise, and control—vital traits for any Alabama team seeking to reclaim its former glory or build on past success.

In this piece, we will explore the significance of Qua Russaw’s leadership list, analyze the role of leadership within the Alabama football team, and examine why the selection of a quarterback is integral to the Tide’s continued success. We will also delve into the players who are expected to lead the team this year and the crucial aspects that make them the perfect candidates for the leadership positions.

The Importance of Leadership in Alabama Football

In any sports program, leadership is a crucial component to success. Leadership within a football team is not just about being vocal in the locker room or being a captain on the field—it’s about setting an example, making critical decisions under pressure, and inspiring teammates to perform at their best, especially when faced with adversity. For Alabama, a team that expects to win every game it plays, leadership is a non-negotiable attribute.

Since the arrival of legendary coach Nick Saban in 2007, Alabama has excelled both on the field and in the development of its players. The program has won six national championships under Saban and developed numerous NFL talents. Saban’s leadership philosophy emphasizes discipline, focus, and respect, and he has cultivated a culture where leadership is not just a title—it’s earned through work ethic, performance, and character.

In particular, Alabama has seen a steady stream of powerful leaders over the years—whether it be on offense with playmakers like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa or on defense with stars like Derrick Henry, Minkah Fitzpatrick, or Will Anderson. These athletes were not only talented but also exemplified leadership in different ways.

Leadership in Alabama football is multi-faceted. It doesn’t simply rely on the quarterbacks or captains but often includes players who take on significant roles in the locker room, during practices, and on game day. From offensive linemen like Evan Neal to defensive stalwarts such as Christian Harris, these players help steer the ship toward victory. But in the 2025 season, it seems that a special emphasis is being placed on leadership—leading to the spring list of selected players.

Qua Russaw’s List of Alabama Football Leaders

Qua Russaw is known in the Alabama football community for his insight into the program’s players, the dynamics within the team, and the qualities that make athletes successful at the highest level of college football. His list, released this spring, provides a snapshot of who will be at the forefront of Alabama’s leadership both on and off the field.

Russaw’s list likely reflects the qualities that Nick Saban values most in his players: discipline, commitment to excellence, and an unwavering focus on team goals. The individuals selected are expected to not only excel in their respective positions but also be vocal and influential presences within the locker room. Leadership goes beyond the statistics; it’s about being someone the team can rely on in critical moments, providing stability when chaos threatens, and motivating teammates through the highs and lows of a grueling season.

The list likely includes familiar names, with players who have shown flashes of greatness or sustained performance in previous seasons. These players might include returning upperclassmen, such as wide receiver Jermaine Burton, defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry, or offensive linemen like J.C. Latham. Their experience and demonstrated excellence make them perfect candidates for leadership roles.

However, a quarterback’s inclusion on Russaw’s list is particularly significant, as the quarterback position is often the face of a team. The quarterback is not only the signal caller but also the leader on the field, often required to be the emotional and tactical center of the offense.

The Role of the Quarterback in Alabama Football Leadership

The quarterback is arguably the most important position in football, especially in a program like Alabama’s, which has historically relied on high-powered offenses to complement its stellar defenses. The quarterback is tasked with orchestrating the offense, making split-second decisions, and often leading the team through adversity. The leadership required of a quarterback is immense; it’s not just about arm strength or mobility, but about mental fortitude, decision-making, and the ability to inspire confidence in others.

Alabama has had its fair share of star quarterbacks—players like AJ McCarron, Tua Tagovailoa, and Jalen Hurts all came to symbolize the Crimson Tide’s commitment to excellence under Saban. They didn’t just win games; they embodied leadership both on the field and in the locker room.

This spring, it was no surprise to see the quarterback position represented on Russaw’s leadership list. The player in question could be Jalen Milroe, who has the physical tools to succeed in Alabama’s offense. Milroe, known for his athleticism and ability to make plays with both his arm and legs, could be the one to take on the leadership mantle. His performance in previous seasons showed promise, and in 2025, he is likely ready to step up as one of the key leaders for the team.

Jalen Milroe, who took snaps in relief of Bryce Young in the 2022 season and earned more starting opportunities in 2023, has shown glimpses of brilliance. His ability to command the Alabama offense, remain poised under pressure, and showcase both his leadership and football IQ have likely made him an obvious choice for Russaw’s list. Milroe has the physical ability to break games open, but his leadership traits, including his work ethic and ability to communicate effectively with teammates, will be essential as he looks to lead the Tide through another competitive season.

Key Leadership Traits for Alabama Quarterbacks

What makes a quarterback a true leader at Alabama? The first trait is certainly poise. A quarterback who can remain calm under pressure, especially in big moments, earns the respect of his teammates. Whether it’s leading a game-winning drive or keeping the offense steady in the face of adversity, poise is a vital quality.

Another key trait is accountability. As the quarterback, you are expected to perform at a high level consistently. When things go wrong, the quarterback is often the first person to take responsibility. Jalen Milroe has exhibited a level of maturity that suggests he can handle such responsibility, using both his performance and words to inspire his teammates.

Additionally, a quarterback must be a great communicator—able to read defenses, make adjustments at the line of scrimmage, and ensure that everyone on offense is aligned. Milroe’s ability to quickly process information, combined with his leadership in the huddle, will play a significant role in his success.

The Road Ahead for Alabama Football

As the 2025 season approaches, Alabama football is poised to remain a contender for both SEC and national titles. The leadership that Qua Russaw highlighted in his list will be critical in shaping the team’s culture and on-field performance. The selection of a quarterback to this leadership group speaks volumes about the importance of that position in Nick Saban’s vision for the team.

While much of the national focus will be on Alabama’s performance on the field, the real work often happens in the locker room, where leaders like Milroe set the tone for the season. With strong leaders both offensively and defensively, Alabama is primed to continue its tradition of success in the nation’s toughest conference.