
As Kalen DeBoer continues to shape the future of Alabama football in the post-Saban era, one concern is quietly growing behind closed doors — the Crimson Tide’s quarterback depth.
An insider close to the program recently sounded the alarm, describing the current state of the quarterback room as “scary,” suggesting the numbers simply aren’t where they need to be for a championship-caliber roster. While fans remain focused on Alabama’s high-profile recruiting efforts and early player development under DeBoer, the coaching staff is reportedly in scramble mode, targeting not one, but two quarterback commitments in the 2025 class.
> “This isn’t just about competition,” the insider told Bama Confidential. “It’s about survival. One injury, one transfer, and Alabama’s QB room gets dangerously thin. DeBoer knows that — and he’s making moves behind the scenes.”
DeBoer Eyes a Double Commitment
Sources confirm that Alabama is actively pursuing multiple high-level quarterbacks, with the intent of securing dual commitments to bolster depth and future-proof the position. That strategy, while rare, is a clear indicator that DeBoer isn’t comfortable with the current pipeline.
After losing Jalen Milroe to the NFL Draft and enduring a round of portal exits, Alabama is left with a small handful of scholarship quarterbacks — and even fewer with meaningful game experience. While talented prospects remain on the roster, depth is razor-thin, and any unforeseen shakeup could spell disaster.
The Portal Pressure
The growing volatility of college football’s transfer portal has only made matters worse. Quarterbacks now move at unprecedented rates, seeking immediate playing time and NIL deals. That mobility, while empowering for players, leaves coaching staffs vulnerable — especially programs like Alabama, where expectations remain sky-high.
“Even if you land a five-star, there’s no guarantee he sticks,” the insider warned. “You can’t build around just one anymore. You need two, maybe three guys you can trust.”
A Strategic Shift Under DeBoer
DeBoer, who built offensive powerhouses at Washington and Fresno State, has always emphasized QB development. But in the SEC — where elite defenses punish the slightest mistake — talent alone isn’t enough. Durability, adaptability, and readiness are just as vital.
The push for two quarterbacks also reflects a broader change in Alabama’s recruitment philosophy under DeBoer — one that emphasizes early development, depth, and a more aggressive embrace of the portal when needed.
Bottom Line: The Clock is Ticking
With summer visits heating up and decisions expected soon from several top quarterback targets, the pressure is on. If DeBoer can lock in his top two choices, Alabama may not just stabilize the position — it could once again redefine it.
But until pen meets paper, the warning remains clear: “The numbers are scary.” And in the SEC, scary numbers at quarterback can be the difference between a playoff run — and a rebuild.