Austin Mack returns to Alabama practice after Keelon Russell earns starting role

Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer named Keelon Russell the starting quarterback for the upcoming season. Following the announcement, backup quarterback Austin Mack returned to the team facility the next day to continue training. DeBoer publicly acknowledged the difficulty of the competition and praised Mack for his professional demeanor after not securing the starting job. The coaching staff indicated that Mack remains a vital part of the team's depth chart as the season approaches. This approach ensures that a prepared backup is ready to enter the game if necessary due to injury or other tactical changes.

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