Alabama QB Keelon Russell named semifinalist for Freshman of the Year award
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As Keelon Russell continues a strong start to his career with the Crimson Tide, college football award committees are taking notice.
Most recently, Russell was named as one of 14 semifinalists for the 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award. He could become the first Alabama quarterback and third Tide player to win the award.
The finalist list will be narrowed to just three players by Dec. 2 with the winner being announced Dec. 28.
Keelon Russell shining in first season
The hype train has certainly slowed down in recent weeks but Russell remains the focal point of Alabama’s offense through eight games.
So far, Russell’s stats include:
- 2,057 passing yards
- 15 passing TDs
- 251 rushing yards
- 5 rushing TDs
- 9.31 yards per pass attempt (leads SEC)
Alabama has the 12th best scoring offense in the country, averaging 38.3 points per game.
Russell is currently 10th in Heisman odds, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award
The award, which was established in 2018, is named after former Alabama running back Shaun Alexander. It’s voted on by the Maxwell Football Club which includes coaches, media members and club members.
Alabama has produced two Alexander winners in program history including Will Anderson, Jr. in 2020 and Caleb Downs in 2023.
Russell would be the second straight quarterback to win the award, following Julian Sayin of Ohio State. Other quarterbacks to win the award include Drake Maye and Trevor Lawrence.
