Five-star Alabama QB signee Keelon Russell shatters records despite state title loss

Five-star prospect Keelon Russell is the highest-ranked quarterback to sign with Alabama since Bryce Young. The standout from Duncanville High School (Texas) capped off his senior season last week.

Despite Russell turning into a superhero multiple times throughout the season, his Duncanville school fell short of a third-straight 6A Division I title. The No. 3 Panthers failed to make the championship game after a shocking 36-34 loss to No. 9 North Crowley on Saturday.

However, Russell put up one of the most prolific seasons in Texas high school football history by completing 238 of 343 passes (69.4%) for 4,177 yards and 55 touchdowns with just five interceptions in 14 games.

A year earlier, Russell led Duncanville to a state title, completing over 74% of his passes for 3,267 yards, 35 touchdowns and three interceptions, while also adding 304 rushing yards and four rushing scores.

Keelon Russell's accolades extend beyond football, as he is a member of Duncanville’s National Honor Society. He has also volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters and participated in community service initiatives, such as distributing turkeys to families in need.

Keelon Russell earns praise from high school QB coach

Keelon Russell was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year on Dec. 11. Dallas Cowboys cornerback Trevon Diggs surprised him with the trophy after his practice session.

Russell edged out Auburn running back signee Alvin Henderson and offensive lineman Jackson Cantwell of Nixa, Missouri, to claim the honor. This milestone makes Russell the first Alabama signee to win the award.

Mike Arogbonlo, Duncanville's passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach, had heavy praise for Russell.

“When I got to know him, and I to see his work ethic, and I got to see how strong he is, how fast he is,” Arogbonlo told TuscaloosaNews. “I said, ‘Oh, this kid’s got potential to be special.’”

Russell’s playmaking ability and fearless approach at quarterback have set him apart.

“Whenever he’s pushed, he’s a competitor,” Arogbonlo said. “And he’s always going to rise to the challenge.”

Keelon Russell won the Elite 11 this summer and is the No. 1 quarterback in the 2025 class, as per ESPN. Rivals also lists him as the top quarterback in the nation and the top recruit in Texas.