Unexpected Contender Reportedly Emerges for Starting QB Position at Alabama
The Alabama Crimson Tide may be facing an unexpected shake-up in their quarterback room. As spring practice unfolds in Tuscaloosa, a surprise contender is reportedly making waves in the competition for the starting quarterback position.
With Jalen Milroe returning after a strong 2023 season, many assumed he had a firm grip on the QB1 role heading into 2024. However, sources within the program suggest that another signal-caller is turning heads, creating a legitimate battle for the starting job.
The Unexpected Challenger
While most fans expected Ty Simpson or highly-touted freshman Julian Sayin to push Milroe for playing time, reports indicate that sophomore Dylan Lonergan has been the standout of early workouts. The former four-star recruit, who split time between football and baseball last year, has reportedly impressed Alabama’s coaching staff with his poise, accuracy, and command of the offense.
Lonergan, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound quarterback from Georgia, saw limited action in 2023 but has used the offseason to refine his mechanics and decision-making. His quick development has caught the attention of new offensive coordinator Kalen DeBoer, who is implementing a system that could favor a more traditional passer.
A Quarterback Battle Heating Up
Milroe’s dynamic athleticism and deep-ball ability make him a dangerous dual-threat quarterback, but his inconsistencies as a passer left some room for doubt last season. If Lonergan continues to progress, Alabama may have a true quarterback competition on its hands heading into fall camp.
DeBoer, who arrives from Washington after coaching Michael Penix Jr. to a Heisman-finalist season, could be looking for a more precise pocket passer to execute his scheme. While Milroe remains the favorite, the emergence of Lonergan could put added pressure on the veteran to improve as a passer.
What’s Next?
Alabama’s spring game in April will provide the first real test for all the quarterbacks in contention. If Lonergan continues to impress, he could force DeBoer and head coach Kalen DeBoer to make a difficult decision. While experience often wins out in close position battles, an unexpected riser like Lonergan could be impossible to ignore.
With a new coaching staff and a fresh offensive philosophy, Alabama’s quarterback situation may be far from settled. As the Tide look to reclaim their spot at the top of college football, the battle for QB1 could be one of the most intriguing storylines to watch in the coming month
