Buckle up, Alabama fans, this offense is about to get electrifying. Bama HC Kalen DeBoer boldly brought in a known entity to energize the Crimson Tide this offseason. Enter Ryan Grubb, his longtime friend and trusted play-caller. However, Grubb originally accepted the Crimson Tide’s offensive coordinator job last year but quickly bolted for the Seattle Seahawks. But now, he’s back — this time for real and is already making waves. Recently, Grubb dropped a surreal revelation about QB Jalen Milroe, hinting at something special brewing in Tuscaloosa.
On the March 6 episode of Alabama Crimson Tide on AL.com, offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb made headlines with a bombshell announcement about Jalen Milroe. Grubb didn’t hold back and said, “You know, there’s some really talented guys. You know, I thought they did a really good job of using Jalen with his legs.” Although Milroe’s athleticism is undeniable, Grubb made it clear — he’s more than just a runner. “I know that’s not necessarily what Jalen wants to be known for. You know, he wants to be a quarterback, and he is a very good one,” remarked Grubb.
You know, last season, Milroe took plenty of heat for his inconsistency as a passer, especially early on. After Alabama’s 34-24 loss to Texas, he was briefly benched, struggling with decision-making and accuracy. But he didn’t crumble, and he bounced back big way, finishing with 2,834 passing yards and 23 touchdowns, proving he’s more than just a runner. And now, without even being Milroe’s QB coach, Grubb has seen enough to form a strong opinion. Safe to say, if his words are any indication, big things are coming for Alabama’s signal-caller.
However, he continued, saying, “Finding ways to be creative, getting the ball down the field. But I thought there were a lot of good players out there. I thought there’s a lot of talent that we can utilize.” Honestly, Alabama’s offense might be about to do something extraordinary now that Grubb is in charge.
So, what makes Alabama’s quarterback room so unique this season? Because they have three dynamic, capable leaders: Ty Simpson, Keelon Russell, and Jalen Milroe. Russell is the budding star, but Milroe is the tried-and-true playmaker. He has over 3,000 throwing yards, 30+ touchdowns, and a state championship, making him one of the greatest prospects in the country. With 2,800+ passing yards, 30+ touchdowns, and a Gatorade Player of the Year award under his belt, Simpson also has an outstanding pedigree. Ryan Grubb’s response to seeing these three in action thus far has been nothing but praise.
Additionally, Ryan Grubb had a lot to say when questioned about Bama’s quarterback competition. He said, “A lot of things. I think that they each, just like any quarterback, have their own individual, you know, strengths and weaknesses.” However, one thing is certain: every quarterback contributes something unique. “Ty has done a good job. I thought he had the biggest jump from day one to day two, just as far as, like, being able to take in all the information, process quickly, and move,” Grubb praised his speedy progress.
At the moment, Grubb expressed his admiration for the younger players, saying, “Austin’s done a really good job of, you know, showing command for a young player.” Then came the glowing assessment of Kelen. “Kelen is awesome, man. He’s very unflappable. And, you know, even when things don’t go right — and they invariably will for a freshman quarterback — I think he’s done an awesome job just kind of staying the course and being very steady. So, and he can make a lot of plays,” the offensive coordinator for Alabama stated.
Safe to say, Grubb and Alabama were meant to be together. When Grubb was officially named the Tide’s OC in February, however, the relationship was already established. So, why is 2025 the ideal year?
Ryan Grubb’s opinion on when to enroll at Alabama
It took some time for Ryan Grubb and Alabama to become connected. He was given the opportunity to be a member of Nick Saban‘s last coaching staff in 2023, but he declined. Why? Because he believed that Washington had a unique combination of Michael Penix Jr. and Rome Odunze, which carried them to the national title.
A year later, it appeared that the relocation might finally take place. In 2024, Grubb became a member of Kalen DeBoer’s first staff and even went on the Alabama recruiting trail. He cited “a lot of factors,” including keeping his family in place when he made the shocking decision to become the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator. And now? This time, it’s official — he’s returned. “Third time’s a charm,” Grubb declared. It’s safe to assume that he finally has control of Alabama’s offense.
Why, then, 2025? since Kalen DeBoer desired his man. In order to make place for Grubb, DeBoer reorganized the offensive staff, promoting Nick Sheridan to the position of QBs coach and co-OC. And it always seemed inevitable that Grubb would return to Bama. Recall DeBoer’s statement from the January Senior Bowl: “I’m here for him whenever he needs me.” So at last the time was right.
But this is a fraternity, not just a staff. Grubb has experienced the struggles alongside Sheridan, DeBoer, and the WRs coach. “You have relationships that you have to go through bumps, right? Tough things, you know, whether it’s on or off the field. I think when you put the investment and the time into relationships like that, then when you got to figure out how to throw the ball against Cover 3, that part seems pretty easy,” stated Grubb.
Right now, they need to work together to make it work. and make Alabama shine in 2025.
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