What year is Keelon Russell? Explaining Alabama QB's grade in college, NFL Draft eligibility

What year is Keelon Russell? Explaining Alabama QB’s grade in college, NFL Draft eligibility originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Alabama starting quarterback Keelon Russell has taken command of the Tide’s offense in just his first season as the starter. In the Tide’s first five games, he threw for 1,414 yards with 11 touchdowns and just two interceptions. He’s also helped the Tide start the season 5-0.

With how well he’s lit up defenses, fans might be wondering if Russell can be one of the next quarterbacks taken in the 2027 NFL Draft.

Here’s a look at what year Russell is to find out if that can be true.

MORE:Latest updates on Hurricane Isaias’ impact on Georgia-Alabama

What year is Keelon Russell?

Russell is a sophomore at Alabama in 2026. He signed with the Tide as a class of 2025 recruit, and backed up Ty Simpson last year as a true freshman. He signed with Alabama out of Duncanville High School in Texas. Previously, he was committed to play at SMU.

As a back-up, he completed 11 passes for 143 yards with two touchdowns, adding 17 rush yards. He played in two games, but did not take a redshirt in 2025.

According to NFL rules, players have to be three years removed from high school to be eligible for the NFL Draft. That would mean 2028 is the earliest Russell will be eligible for the draft, if he were to declare.

MORE:ESPN’s Saban documentary features 70 revealing interviews that chronicle career

Keelon Russell stats

MORE:College football picks, predictions against the spread for Week 6 matchups