Sports

Alabama’s $1.3 Million Freshman Quarterback Buys Mom $50K Car With NIL Funds

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Alabama QB Keelon Russell at spring practice

© Gary Cosby/Tuscaloosa News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images


Keelon Russell is battling for the QB1 role in Tuscaloosa this offseason after signing with the Alabama Crimson Tide last offseason. He’s already making an impact following that college decision.

The passer was seen purchasing a car for his mom this week on social media. He’s putting his new fortune to good use before even stepping foot on the field.

Russell committed to the Tide as a five-star prospect to headline the 2025 recruiting class. He backed off of an initial pledge to hometown program SMU in order to compete in the SEC.

The freshman enrolled at Alabama in January. He’s since made it his mission to win the starting job. Russell reportedly turned heads in the spring as he battles Ty Simpson and Austin Mack for the keys to the offense.

The quarterback added a quick 20 pounds upon arriving to campus. Many believe he can blossom into a star in Year 1.

“I just want to see how he adapts to playing football in Tuscaloosa. I saw one of the biggest jumps from a player from his junior year to his senior year (in high school). I’m anticipating seeing his growth once he gets to college and learns how to prepare like a true pro…

“The rumbles I’m getting out of Tuscaloosa, he might be the next (great Alabama QB)… I’m ready to see it.”

-Gerald Dixon via 247 Sports

Should Keelon Russell live up to the hype that’s following him from high school, he’ll have plenty of opportunity to win the QB1 title. That status would come with a major NIL payoff.

Keelon Russell is already spending his NIL cash.

Russell’s wasted no time putting his money to good use. His mom posted a photo of a new purchase on X this week.

The car appears to be a Mercedes-Benz C-Class valued at around $50,000. Not too shabby!

The quarterback’s valuation currently sits at $1.3 million according to On3 Sports. It should only grow as his career progresses.

Keelon Russell hopes there are more gifts to come as his time at Alabama continues. His NIL wealth is already making a difference. He’ll look to rack up a few more brand opportunities in the future.