Nick Saban puts thumb on Kalen DeBoer's QB competition by favoring the 'fine young man' he recruited

In a departure from his typically reserved approach to quarterback competitions, legendary former Alabama head coach Nick Saban has made waves by publicly throwing his support behind Ty Simpson in the Crimson Tide’s ongoing battle for the starting quarterback role. 

This move marks a rare moment for Saban, who has historically shied away from singling out players during such contests, preferring to let competition play out on the field. His vocal backing of Simpson, combined with praise from current head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, paints a compelling picture of a quarterback whose patience and development are finally poised to pay off.

Saban, speaking at his annual Nick’s Kids charity golf tournament in Vestavia Hills, didn’t hold back his admiration for the redshirt junior. 

“Ty was an outstanding high school player, no doubt. He’s a fine young man,” Saban said. “I think his example is a true example of development. He matured and developed for [three] years and now he’s going to get the opportunity, and I think his experiences are really going to help him be successful. We’re rooting for him, that’s for sure, and I have every confidence that he’ll do a great job.” 

This endorsement is significant not only because of Saban’s stature but also because it breaks from his usual practice of neutrality during Alabama’s quarterback battles. In the past, Saban has been known for letting performance dictate outcomes, as seen in the 2023 competition between Jalen Milroe and Simpson, where he avoided tipping the scales publicly. 

His decision to go all-in for Simpson now suggests a deep belief in the former five-star recruit’s readiness to lead. Alabama is looking to make the call "a week and a half" or so before their season opener against Florida State.

Simpson’s journey at Alabama has been one of perseverance. A top-25 prospect in the 2022 recruiting class, he redshirted his freshman year behind Bryce Young and served as Jalen Milroe’s backup in 2023 and 2024.

In an era dominated by the transfer portal, where quarterbacks often bolt for immediate playing time, Simpson’s decision to stay and develop is, as Saban noted, “a true example of development.” With Milroe now in the NFL, Simpson is the frontrunner in a three-way race against redshirt sophomore Austin Mack and true freshman Keelon Russell. 

His 50 career pass attempts and three rushing touchdowns give him the edge in experience, a factor that seems to resonate with Alabama’s coaching staff. It's a big reason why ESPN isn't too optimistic on their QB situation.

Current head coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb have also signaled their confidence in Simpson, adding fuel to the narrative that he’s the man to beat. At the end of spring practice, Grubb stated that if Alabama had a game tomorrow, Simpson would be the starter. 

DeBoer, while emphasizing that “the competition always continues,” has echoed this sentiment, suggesting Simpson is the “overwhelming favorite” despite the ongoing battle. This alignment of praise from both Saban and the current staff is noteworthy. 

DeBoer, in his second year at Alabama, faces pressure to rebound from a 2024 season that fell short of the Crimson Tide’s lofty standards, missing the expanded College Football Playoff and losing to Michigan in their bowl game. Choosing the right quarterback is critical, and Simpson’s experience in DeBoer’s system, coupled with his continuity under quarterbacks coach Nick Sheridan, positions him as a stabilizing force.

Saban’s public endorsement, however, is the real headline. Known for his calculated approach, Saban rarely offers such explicit support during a competition, making his comments a bold statement of faith in Simpson’s potential. 

This move could galvanize Alabama fans, who have watched Simpson bide his time behind NFL-bound stars like Young and Milroe. It also puts subtle pressure on DeBoer to lean into Simpson as the starter, given Saban’s unmatched influence over the program. While Saban’s words don’t guarantee Simpson the job—preseason camp will ultimately decide that—they carry undeniable weight.

Simpson’s story is one of rare patience in modern college football. As Saban put it, “He’s a fine young man,” whose commitment to Alabama through years of limited snaps sets him apart. 

With DeBoer and Grubb also singing his praises, the stage is set for Simpson to seize the opportunity he’s waited three years for. If he can translate his development into on-field success, Alabama may have found its next great quarterback—and Saban’s public gamble will have paid off.