Well Deserved: Alabama football signee Keelon Russell named Gatorade National Football Player of the Year

Keelon Russell, a 5-star quarterback from Duncanville High School in Texas, has been named the 2024–25 Gatorade National Football Player of the Year, a testament to his exceptional on-field performance, academic excellence, and community involvement. This prestigious honor places him among a distinguished group of athletes, including Peyton Manning, Kyler Murray, and DJ Lagway. ([Duncanville QB Keelon Russell named Gatorade National Player of the Year | wfaa.com](https://www.wfaa.com/article/sports/high-school/hs-football/duncanville-qb-keelon-russell-wins-gatorade-national-football-player-of-the-year/287-710ba99d-1262-4471-aacc-0ab27022d06a?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Alabama signee Keelon Russell wins Gatorade National Player of the Year – On3](https://www.on3.com/news/alabama-signee-keelon-russell-wins-gatorade-national-player-of-the-year/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

### A Season of Excellence

Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 180 pounds, Russell led Duncanville to a perfect 12-0 record, showcasing his prowess as both a passer and a leader. Over the season, he amassed 3,652 passing yards, 52 touchdowns, and only two interceptions, completing 71.5% of his passes. Additionally, he contributed 254 rushing yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his dual-threat capabilities. His performance was instrumental in guiding Duncanville to the 6A Division I state quarterfinals. ([Keelon Russell 2024 – 2025 Player of the Year National Football PLAYER OF THE YEAR](https://playeroftheyear.gatorade.com/winner/Keelon-Russell/40607?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

### Academic and Community Engagement

Beyond his athletic achievements, Russell has maintained a 3.4 GPA and is an active member of Duncanville’s National Honor Society. He has also volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, participating in community service projects such as distributing turkeys to families in need alongside the Dallas Cowboys. These endeavors highlight his commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field. ([Alabama signee Keelon Russell wins Gatorade National Player of the Year – On3](https://www.on3.com/news/alabama-signee-keelon-russell-wins-gatorade-national-player-of-the-year/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Keelon Russell 2024 – 2025 Player of the Year National Football PLAYER OF THE YEAR](https://playeroftheyear.gatorade.com/winner/Keelon-Russell/40607?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

### Commitment to Alabama

Despite receiving lucrative NIL offers from schools like SMU, Texas, Colorado, and LSU, Russell remained steadfast in his commitment to the University of Alabama. He emphasized his desire to be part of a program that consistently demonstrated interest in his development and offered opportunities for long-term growth. ([Why five-star QB Keelon Russell stayed committed to Alabama despite ‘big’ NIL offers from other schools](https://www.sbnation.com/2024/12/30/24332220/why-five-star-qb-keelon-russell-stayed-committed-to-alabama-despite-big-nil-offers?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

### Looking Ahead

Russell’s signing with Alabama adds to a recruiting class that is already considered one of the nation’s best. His leadership and skill set are expected to make an immediate impact in Tuscaloosa. As he transitions to the collegiate level, Russell’s blend of athletic talent, academic diligence, and community involvement positions him as a promising future leader for the Crimson Tide.

Keelon Russell’s recognition as the Gatorade National Football Player of the Year underscores his exceptional abilities and character, setting the stage for a successful collegiate and potentially professional football career.