Keelon Russell has the respect of his Alabama football teammates. Now, as the Crimson Tide's starting quarterback, relationship building starts.
As Alabama's 2026 season opener nears, and as offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb sets his plans in motion to ensure Russell is as prepared as possible for his first collegiate start against East Carolina, the number one relationship on Grubb's mind isn't between Russell and Ryan Coleman-Williams. It's not a receiver. It's not a running back.
It's Russell and his center: Cal Poly transfer Racin Delgatty.
"I think his relationship with all the O-line is, for a young quarterback, like just being himself, asking questions and really for him, I think it starts with him and Racin," Grubb said after Alabama's fall camp practice Tuesday, Aug. 25. "You know, like them having to gel together on protection calls and checks and trusting Racin to help get him into the right calls if he needs it."
Grubb made it clear. Russell has the final say on protections. Quarterbacks always do. They know where the problems are. They see the big picture.

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