Michigan target Ty Haywood drops 1-word reaction to Alabama's Keelon Russell's updated rankings on Rivals250

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jan 22, 2025 18:13 GMT

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Top Michigan football prospect Ty Haywood caught attention with his concise reaction to Keelon Russell’s meteoric rise in the Rivals250 rankings. On Tuesday on his Instagram Story, he shared a single word highlighting his respect for Russell's achievement:

"HIM."

Image via Ig@tyhaywood_

According to 247Sports Composite, Haywood is the No. 20 overall prospect and the No. 4 offensive tackle in the 2025 class.

Russell is a five-star quarterback and Alabama commit, and he achieved the No. 1 spot in Rivals’ final Class of 2025 rankings. Previously ranked No. 3 overall and the No. 3 quarterback, Russell surpassed the likes of Michigan signee Bryce Underwood, the No.1 overall recruit in the class of 2025, and Ohio State signee Tavien St. Clair.

Russell clinched the Elite 11 title over the summer. In December, he earned the prestigious Gatorade National Football Player of the Year award, beating standout players such as Auburn running back signee Alvin Henderson and highly-rated 2026 offensive lineman Jackson Cantwell.

Additionally, Russell led Duncanville to a Texas UIL 6A state championship, cementing his reputation as a leader and elite player.

Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer praised Russell’s leadership and skill set during the December signing day press conference:

"So excited about what he brings. He’s got the arm talent, just accurate, can throw with different arm slots and all that kind of stuff and then also just the ability as an athlete to make plays with his feet, just an added dimension there.”

Keelon Russell joins elite ranks as Alabama’s No. 1 signee

Keelon Russell has ascended to an exclusive group as the third Crimson Tide recruit to claim the No. 1 ranking since 2006. Previously, coach Nick Saban secured top-ranked players Najee Harris (2017) and Da’Shawn Hand (2014).

Russell’s rise marks Alabama’s highest-rated quarterback since Bryce Young, who ranked No. 2 in the Class of 2020. Russell’s exceptional senior season at Duncanville High School saw him complete 238 of 343 passes for 4,177 yards, 55 touchdowns, and just four interceptions.

Deboer expressed confidence in his abilities:

“There’s a swagger about him, a confidence about him. He’s helped become a major part of bringing and keeping this class together, which is what you want out of any leader especially these key guys, especially your quarterback. He’s just having a great championship run with his high school."

Joining Alabama’s 2025 class are two additional five-star recruits: offensive lineman Michael Carroll (No. 15) and cornerback Dijon Lee Jr. (No. 12). Lee climbed 13 spots in the final rankings, while Carroll dropped one spot.

Russell is poised for success under DeBoer. DeBoer is known for developing elite quarterbacks. Surrounded by Alabama’s premier talent, Russel is expected to shine in Tuscaloosa.