Kalen DeBoer Weighs In: Alabama Quarterback Competition ‘Always Continues’ as Tide Prepares for Upcoming Season.

As the college football world gears up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on the Alabama Crimson Tide, and particularly on their highly anticipated quarterback competition. For Alabama, a program known for its dominance under head coach Nick Saban, the position of quarterback is pivotal. With multiple talented quarterbacks vying for the starting job, there’s no shortage of intrigue surrounding the battle for the role.

Kalen DeBoer, the respected offensive mind now serving as Alabama’s offensive coordinator, recently made his thoughts on the situation clear: the quarterback competition is never truly over. With his comments, DeBoer hinted at a deeper philosophy that extends beyond the traditional concept of a single battle for the position. According to him, the competition for the starting spot at quarterback is something that will persist throughout the entire season.

His recent statement that “the quarterback competition always continues” sheds light on how the Alabama coaching staff is approaching this critical position and how it plans to navigate the uncertain waters of player development, leadership, and team dynamics.

The Alabama Quarterback Room: A Talent-Packed Roster

The conversation surrounding Alabama’s quarterback situation begins with the talented individuals competing for the starting role. The quarterback room at Alabama is one of the deepest and most competitive in the country. Heading into the 2025 season, Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, and Buckner are among the key names that have emerged as frontrunners in the battle.

Jalen Milroe impressed with his athleticism last season, showcasing his ability to make plays with his legs and arm. However, he also faced questions about his consistency and decision-making, which led to some uncertainty about whether he could secure the starting job long-term.

On the other hand, Ty Simpson, a former 5-star recruit, brings a high level of promise. Despite his limited playing time in 2024, he demonstrated flashes of brilliance and his ability to push the ball downfield. Simpson, known for his strong arm and poise in the pocket, remains one of the most highly regarded quarterbacks in college football.

Then, there’s Buckner, a promising talent who has the potential to develop into a standout player under DeBoer’s tutelage. The competition between these three quarterbacks is expected to intensify as they all work to prove themselves as the leader of Alabama’s offense.

However, DeBoer’s message to the quarterbacks indicates that this is not simply about who wins the job at the start of the season. The battle for the starting role is ongoing and could continue throughout the season depending on the performance of each quarterback.

Kalen DeBoer’s Philosophy: A Culture of Constant Improvement

Kalen DeBoer’s statement about the quarterback competition always continuing is rooted in a deeper coaching philosophy. As an offensive coordinator, DeBoer is known for his ability to develop quarterbacks and his belief in creating a culture where competition drives constant improvement. This philosophy is not limited to the early days of the season but is instead embedded in the DNA of the Alabama football program.

DeBoer believes that keeping the competition alive throughout the season ensures that quarterbacks remain engaged and focused. It also prevents any complacency from setting in, ensuring that players are consistently working to elevate their game. In many ways, this mindset mirrors the mentality of Alabama’s entire program—one that thrives on competition and high standards, regardless of position.

While the idea of a constantly shifting quarterback competition may seem unusual, it makes perfect sense in the context of DeBoer’s offensive philosophy. “At Alabama, we never settle,” DeBoer explained during a recent press conference. “We are always striving for excellence, and that includes at the quarterback position. There’s never a moment where the competition should stop. Our guys understand that it’s not just about the first game, but about continuing to improve throughout the year.”

This mentality not only pushes the quarterbacks to refine their skills and prove themselves on the field, but it also encourages accountability and adaptability. Each quarterback must be ready to step in at any given moment, knowing that their performance in practice and games will directly impact their standing.

The Importance of Developing Multiple Quarterbacks

In modern college football, the importance of having multiple capable quarterbacks cannot be overstated. Programs like Alabama, which operate under the intense pressure of championship expectations, cannot afford to put all their eggs in one basket. Injuries, inconsistent play, or changes in team dynamics can quickly alter the landscape of a season, and having multiple quarterbacks who can step in and perform at a high level is crucial.

By keeping the competition for the starting role alive throughout the season, DeBoer ensures that each quarterback is getting the necessary reps and experience to be ready for any scenario that might arise. Whether it’s a game-time decision due to injury or a poor performance by a starter, having multiple quarterbacks who are constantly improving ensures that the team has options when they need them most.

This approach also fosters a healthy level of competition between the quarterbacks themselves. Rather than resting on their laurels after being named the starter, players like Milroe, Simpson, and Buckner will understand that their spot is never entirely secure. This can lead to a higher level of performance as each quarterback pushes the others to become better.

Pressure and Expectations: Navigating the Alabama Spotlight

Being the starting quarterback at Alabama is no easy feat. The expectations are sky-high, and the spotlight is always on the individual playing the most important position on the field. Historically, Alabama has had a long line of successful quarterbacks, including Tua Tagovailoa, Mac Jones, and Jalen Hurts—each of whom led the team to national championships or playoff appearances.

For Milroe, Simpson, and Buckner, this pressure is ever-present. DeBoer’s approach of keeping the competition ongoing could alleviate some of the stress by ensuring that no one player bears the full burden of the quarterback position. It also encourages a mindset where the quarterback room operates as a unit, with everyone holding each other accountable.

DeBoer’s philosophy also provides a safety net for players who may struggle during the season. If a starting quarterback falters, having other capable quarterbacks ready to step in can be a lifeline. It also allows DeBoer to be more flexible in his offensive game plans, tailoring the scheme to the strengths of whichever quarterback is on the field.

The Role of DeBoer in Shaping the Quarterbacks

DeBoer’s influence on the quarterbacks cannot be overstated. As an offensive coordinator known for developing high-level quarterbacks, DeBoer brings a wealth of experience and insight to Alabama’s offense. Before arriving at Alabama, he had a proven track record of developing quarterbacks into NFL prospects, most recently during his time at Washington. His ability to shape a quarterback’s mechanics, decision-making, and football IQ has made him one of the most respected minds in the game.

By keeping the competition alive throughout the season, DeBoer ensures that the quarterbacks are not only battling for the starting spot but also receiving constant coaching and feedback. This culture of constant development will serve the quarterbacks well, as they continue to learn from DeBoer and push each other to reach new heights.

The Bigger Picture: Alabama’s Path to Success

Ultimately, DeBoer’s philosophy of constant competition at quarterback is about more than just winning games in 2025. It’s about maintaining a standard of excellence at Alabama that lasts well beyond one season. By fostering an environment where the quarterback competition never ends, DeBoer ensures that Alabama remains a powerhouse in college football for years to come.

This competition also signals a shift in how Alabama plans to approach the future. With a new offensive coordinator in DeBoer and a strong recruiting class coming in, the quarterback battle will be an ongoing saga that will continue to evolve. The decisions made in this competition will not only shape the 2025 season but could have lasting ramifications on the program’s future.

As Alabama prepares for the season ahead, the quarterback competition remains one of the most fascinating storylines in college football. With Kalen DeBoer’s guidance, it’s clear that Alabama will continue to be a force to be reckoned with, regardless of who ultimately wins the starting role.

Kalen DeBoer’s recent comments about the Alabama quarterback competition are a clear reflection of the coaching philosophy that has made him successful throughout his career. By emphasizing that the competition never ends, DeBoer ensures that his quarterbacks are constantly developing and improving. This mentality will serve Alabama well as the program looks to continue its dominance in college football. Whether Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, or Buckner claims the starting role, one thing is for sure: the best man for the job will emerge, and Alabama will be ready to compete at the highest level.