11/4/2026 9:00:00 AM | Football
Russell is among 14 semifinalists for college football’s freshman player of the year award
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell was named a semifinalist for the 2026 Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award, the Maxwell Football Club announced Wednesday.
Russell is one of 14 semifinalists for the Alexander which is presented annually to the most outstanding freshman player in college football. Three finalists will be named on Dec. 2 with the 2026 winner of the Shaun Alexander Award being announced on Dec. 28.
Alabama has produced two Alexander winners in program history – Will Anderson, Jr. in 2020 and Caleb Downs in 2023.
Keelon Russell
Quarterback
- Earned the Crimson Tide's starting quarterback job late in fall camp
- Has thrown for 2,057 yards and 15 touchdowns compared to five interceptions on 148-of-221 passing
- Added 66 rushes for 251 yards and a team-high tying five scores with his legs
- Leads the SEC and ranks 12th nationally with a 9.31 yards per pass attempt mark
- Averaging 13.90 yards per completion to rank second in the conference and 17th in Division I
- Also ranks third in the league for passing efficiency (163.0) and passing yards
Players Mentioned
QB
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