Alabama Crimson Tide Head Coach Kalen DeBoer Made Major Statement, Declaring that QB Ty Simpson is Now The..
In a move that signals the beginning of a new era for Alabama football, head coach Kalen DeBoer has officially named Ty Simpson as the Crimson Tide’s starting quarterback heading into the 2025 season. The announcement came during a highly anticipated post-spring press conference held inside the Mal M. Moore Athletic Facility, where DeBoer addressed the media with a tone of resolute confidence and excitement for what lies ahead.
“This is Ty’s team now,” DeBoer stated unequivocally. “He’s earned it with how he’s prepared, how he’s developed, and most importantly, how he’s led this program during a critical transition. He embodies everything we want Alabama football to be.”
Simpson, a redshirt junior from Martin, Tennessee, had long been considered one of the most talented quarterbacks in the Crimson Tide’s depth chart, but until now had mostly played behind former starter Jalen Milroe. With Milroe’s departure to the NFL and a heated competition in spring camp, all eyes were on Simpson to rise to the occasion — and according to DeBoer, he did just that.
“Ty has taken tremendous steps not just physically, but mentally. He’s seeing the field better, making quicker decisions, and taking full ownership of this offense,” DeBoer said. “His command in the locker room and on the practice field has been second to none.”
This announcement marks a turning point for the storied Alabama program, which is undergoing a period of transformation following the retirement of legendary head coach Nick Saban. DeBoer, who was hired from the University of Washington after leading the Huskies to a College Football Playoff National Championship appearance, has brought his own brand of leadership and offensive acumen to Tuscaloosa.
Since arriving, DeBoer has emphasized tempo, vertical passing, and quarterback responsibility — all traits that align with Simpson’s skillset. Known for his arm strength, mobility, and football IQ, Simpson appears poised to flourish under DeBoer’s system.
“I feel blessed and ready,” Simpson told reporters after the announcement. “Coach DeBoer believes in me, and I’m going to give everything I have to bring this team back to the top. We have the talent, the coaching, and the drive. Now it’s time to execute.”
Teammates have echoed that sentiment, praising Simpson for his leadership throughout the spring.
“Ty’s been a different guy this year,” said senior wide receiver Kendrick Law. “He’s more vocal, more confident, and he’s putting the ball exactly where it needs to be. He’s earned our respect.”
While Simpson’s naming as starter may settle the quarterback question for now, it also signals a commitment by DeBoer to begin shaping the Tide in his image. Alabama, traditionally known for its punishing defense and conservative offensive schemes under Saban, is now pivoting toward a more dynamic and quarterback-centric approach.
Simpson will have a full arsenal at his disposal — a deep receiving corps, a revamped offensive line, and a backfield featuring a blend of speed and power. But the pressure of being Alabama’s quarterback — especially in the first post-Saban years — is immense.
“We know what the expectations are,” Simpson said. “This isn’t just about replacing anyone. It’s about building something new, while honoring what’s come before us.”
For DeBoer, the decision is not just about winning games this fall, but establishing a long-term foundation.
“This is just the beginning,” DeBoer concluded. “Ty’s our guy. And with him under center, we’re ready to compete with anybody in the country.”
With that declaration, the Kalen DeBoer era at Alabama takes its clearest step forward — and Ty Simpson takes the reins of college football’s most iconic program, ready to write the next chapter in Crimson Tide history.