The Alabama Crimson Tide reached the College Football Playoff in Kalen DeBoer’s second season. However, the path to a repeat performance in 2026 appears challenging. The team is set to replace quarterback Ty Simpson, a first-round pick for the Los Angeles Rams. The contenders for this position are Keelon Russell and Austin Mack.

Alabama needs to boost its offensive game, particularly in rushing. The program recently faced a setback when it lost a key recruit, Hollywood Smothers, to Texas. Major teams like Texas, LSU, and Georgia are investing heavily in their rosters, increasing competition.

“We’ve got to continue to grow,” DeBoer emphasized. “There’s no question. We’ve got to continue to adjust to the times. We’ve got to continue to push the envelope.”

DeBoer’s comments came during an interview with Garry L. Harris of WVUA 23. He urged fans to support the program, noting the importance of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) support for attracting elite players.

In April, DeBoer secured a seven-year contract extension valued at $87.7 million. His record stands at 20-8 over two seasons with Alabama. Despite this success, the team is off to a slow start in recruiting for the 2027 class, ranked No. 71 according to 247 Sports.

“I think we’re very competitive, and that’s what I ask,” DeBoer stated. “When we’re able to be competitive, I think what our staff brings, what this program has, and what we have for our players, the amount of investment that we put into each scholarship guy that’s on this football team, I just don’t know another program that can give what we give our guys.”

While the Crimson Tide can maintain competitiveness, they may not regain the dominance seen under Nick Saban until they match SEC and Big Ten competitors in NIL funding.