On Tuesday, Elite 11 Finals in Los Angeles kicked off with a showcase of the nation’s 20 best high school quarterbacks, including three in the running for Alabama’s 2026 class: Jett Thomalla, Matt Ponatoski, and Bryson Beaver. It was also the day Alabama officially flipped four‑star prospect Thomalla from Iowa State, marking him as the Tide’s newest QB commit .
🧩 First impressions: Thomalla trails…
Despite the hype around the commitment, Thomalla performed slightly below the other two Alabama targets. Reports from those present showed he excelled but didn’t stand out like Ponatoski or Beaver . YardBarker noted Thomalla was “recognized as one of the top quarterbacks on day one,” ranking 9th overall, earning some praise but still trailing his in‑state rivals .
⭐ Ponatoski & Beaver shine
Both uncommitted prospects from key QB classes delivered standout showings. Ponatoski’s accuracy, arm strength and fluid delivery were repeatedly cited by On3 scouts . Beaver likewise impressed with high‑velocity throws and top‑tier arm strength during drills .
🎯 What it means for Alabama
With Keelon Russell and Ty Simpson already onboard—and Russell earmarked as the long‑term starter—Alabama isn’t in desperate need of another QB immediately . If Thomalla stays the lone 2026 QB signee, he may spend his first year redshirting and won’t likely see game action until Russell turns pro post‑2028 .
Still, DeBoer might push to add a second 2026 QB (likely Ponatoski or Beaver) to reinforce depth if Simpson or Mack transfer. Tuesday’s showing could become a significant factor in that pursuit .
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🔮 Final take:
Thomalla: A solid first day—9th ranked and technically sound—but clearly trailing the uncommitted duo in elite traits.
Ponatoski & Beaver: Demonstrated why Alabama remains interested; both showed accuracy and arm talent beyond Thomalla’s level.
Strategic posture: With their starter locked in, Alabama is using Elite 11 as a proving ground—if Mark DeBoer wants depth in 2026, today may have pushed Ponatoski or Beaver to the front of the queue.
Expect Day 2 Pro‑Day results to be pivotal. Alabama fans should keep an eye on performances to see if DeBoer decides to swing again in the 2026 QB space.