February 1, 2025
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Keelon Russell Recognized as the Top Recruit in Alabama Football History

The pressure continues to build for the Alabama Crimson Tide for the 2025 season, specifically true freshman quarterback Keelon Russell.

The various recruiting services have released the final recruiting rankings, and 247 Sports is one that expects Russell to excel during his time at Alabama. Russell is ranked as the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2025 recruiting class, usurping Michigan quarterback signee Bryce Underwood. Russell has been graded as a 0.9998 recruit according to 247 Sports.

He is the first Alabama football player since Andre Smith in 2006 to finish No. 1 on 247 Sports recruiting service.

The rise did not stop there for the 6-foot-3, 175-pound quarterback from Duncanville High School. Russell’s 0.9998 rating has earned him the top spot as the No. 1 recruit in Alabama football history.

The 6-foot-3, 175-pound quarterback from Duncanville, Texas, has accomplished many things in his high school career. In the season opener of 2022, Russell took over for upperclassman Jameir Willis and led Duncanville to a 15-0 record and a 6A D-1 state championship. He was 170 of 254 passing for 2,377 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. He also ran for 203 yards and three touchdowns.

In 2023, Russell Led Duncanville to a 14-1 record and its second-straight Texas 6A D-1 state title. He was 189 for 262 passes for 3,483 yards with 38 TDs and only three interceptions. Also ran for 361 yards and six touchdowns while averaging 5.82 yards per carry.

Will Keelon Rusell live up to the hype?

Keelon Russell, a five-star quarterback from Duncanville High School in Texas, has been recognized as the highest-rated signee in Alabama football history. According to 247Sports, Russell’s 0.9998 rating surpasses that of previous top recruits, including Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young.

In his senior year, Russell delivered an outstanding performance, throwing for 4,117 yards and 55 touchdowns with a 69.4% completion rate. He also rushed for over 1,500 yards, leading Duncanville to a deep playoff run. His exceptional season earned him the 2024-2025 National Gatorade Player of the Year award.

Initially committed to SMU, Russell switched his commitment to Alabama in June 2024. He cited the development of quarterbacks under Alabama’s coaching staff as a significant factor in his decision.

Russell’s arrival at Alabama is highly anticipated, with expectations that he will compete for the starting quarterback position from day one. His combination of passing accuracy, rushing ability, and leadership qualities positions him as a potential game-changer for the Crimson Tide.