Kalen DeBoer’s most difficult decision during his first year at Alabama involves the most important position. He must choose which quarterback will lead the Crimson Tide in 2024 and beyond.
His dilemma will get even more difficult once Ty Simpson makes an official declaration on his future. He announced that he was not going to transfer prior to Nick Saban’s retirement. The rising redshirt sophomore posted a photo to express his love for Tommy Rees on Monday. Alabama’s incumbent offensive coordinator is not considered a lock to return as part of the new staff.
What does this mean for Simpson? We don’t know.
If Simpson is to return as planned, it would ultimately be a very good thing for DeBoer. However, it would not make the decision for him.
Early indications also point toward a return for Jalen Milroe. The starting quarterback proudly declared that he is going to stay upon his new head coach’s hiring and later shared a cool moment with DeBoer during the initial introductory meeting.
Simpson also appears to be sticking around. Maybe. He was a former five-star prospect, ranked as the No. 4 player at his position behind only Drew Allar, Cade Klubnik and Conner Weigman.
There was once an expectation that Simpson would be the future at signal-caller for Saban at some point. The 6-foot-2, 203-pound ‘pro style’ quarterback was fourth-best quarterback commit in Alabama history..
While many thought that this past year might be the year, Milroe ultimately got the nod during the 2023 season. Will that be the case again in 2024? We don’t know.
DeBoer and his offensive coordinator, Ryan Grubb, run one of the most explosive systems in the country. Milroe may not be the best fit for the scheme. Simpson might offer a better chance to go vertical as a passer.
There is also a chance that DeBoer may not be excited about any of his options for next fall. The 49-year-old could choose to go after a quarterback in the transfer portal, like former Mississippi State gunslinger Will Rogers, who had committed to Washington before the head coach’s quick exit.
That seems unlikely at this point. It feels like there will be a legitimate quarterback competition between Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson. If that is what happens, Kalen DeBoer is tasked with a difficult decision!