Alabama’s 5-star QB Keelon Russell shares reasons that compelled him to commit to Kalen DeBoer’s team

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jul 11, 2024 15:29 GMT

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Keelon Russell, a highly touted 4-star quarterback from Duncanville, Texas, has committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide. Initially committed to SMU, Russell switched to Alabama after visiting Tuscaloosa. Appearing on On3's Phillip Dukes' Five Star Flex podcast on Wednesday, Russell elaborated on his decision to change his commitment.

"My biggest thing was development," Russell explained. "I saw what they did with Michael Penix last year and the entire Washington offense. Their success with offensive linemen, wide receivers, and running backs was impressive. I knew I could trust them with my talent."

The Crimson Tide's recruiting efforts are impressive, with 11 of their 20 commitments in the No. 2 ranked recruiting class coming in June. One notable early commitment from June was Keelon Russell, who has since been elevated to a five-star recruit and named MVP of the Elite 11 Finals. Russell also emphasized DeBoer and his staff confided in him from the beginning.

"Kalen DeBoer and his team believed in me from the start," he said. "I am the only quarterback they recruited since they joined Alabama in January."

DeBoer’s approach played a significant role in making Russell feel welcome.

"I was on the phone with Kalen DeBoer, and he told me, 'You're going to be the leader of our team, the star, the heart of our team. We see it in your tape and your eyes. We know you're a perfect fit here,'" Russell said.

Alabama has only one committed wide receiver, three-star Lotzeir Brooks. However, it is optimistic about landing five-star receiver Derek Meadows, who is set to announce his decision soon. Further, the Crimson Tide is in contention for five-star talents Ty Haywood and Kaliq Lockett.

Keelon Russell’s remarkable rise in rankings

A month ago, Alabama faced criticism for flipping SMU quarterback Keelon Russell.

"Because Keelon Russell flipped to Alabama, from SMU... they are relegated to pillaging SMU for three-star players," ESPN Baton Rouge's Matt Moscona said.

However, Russell has since silenced his critics with his stellar performances. He shone at the Elite 11 competition, earning the MVP award, and followed it by winning the Rivals QB Challenge.

These achievements and a strong junior season propelled him up the recruiting rankings. On3 moved him from No. 80 to No. 37, and 247Sports ranked him even higher.

Determined to secure a quarterback for the 2025 class, new Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer targeted Russell, who was then committed to SMU. After an official visit on May 31, Russell flipped his commitment to Alabama on Jun. 4.

Alabama's critics changed their tune when Russell outperformed top recruits like LSU's Bryce Underwood and Ohio State's Tavien St. Clair at the Elite 11.

Russell's confidence is at an all-time high as he heads into his senior year. He threw for 3,483 yards, 38 touchdowns and only three interceptions last season. He also rushed for six touchdowns, leading Duncanville to their second consecutive Texas 6A D-1 state title.