Crimson Giant: 6’7″ QB John Gazzaniga Joins Alabama as Walk-On with Game-Changing Potential
In a move that has quietly caught the attention of Alabama football fans and recruiting insiders alike, John Gazzaniga—a towering 6-foot-7 quarterback from Santa Margarita Catholic High School in California—has committed to the Crimson Tide as a preferred walk-on in the Class of 2025.
While his name may not have dominated headlines during national signing day, Gazzaniga’s unique combination of size, athleticism, and potential has made him an intriguing addition to an already talented quarterback room in Tuscaloosa.
A three-star prospect, Gazzaniga played his senior season under the guidance of former NFL star quarterback Carson Palmer, who coached at Santa Margarita during the 2024 season. Despite being under the radar in terms of national rankings, Gazzaniga impressed with his field awareness, arm strength, and leadership. Still, he chose not to sign with a school during the traditional recruiting window. Instead, he waited for the right opportunity—and it came in the form of a walk-on spot at one of the premier programs in college football history.
Sources say the key connection that paved Gazzaniga’s way to Alabama was his relationship with Crimson Tide quarterbacks coach Nick Sheridan. The two had reportedly stayed in touch throughout the past year, and when Alabama’s roster picture became clearer in the spring, a spot opened up for Gazzaniga to join as a preferred walk-on.
Although Gazzaniga won’t be expected to compete for immediate playing time—especially with scholarship quarterbacks Ty Simpson, Austin Mack, and highly-touted freshman Keelon Russell ahead of him—his presence adds valuable depth to Alabama’s scout team. More importantly, it gives the Tide a developmental prospect with untapped potential.
Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing around 230 pounds, Gazzaniga has drawn comparisons to former big-bodied quarterbacks like Paxton Lynch and Brock Osweiler. However, a source close to the program hinted at a more creative long-term vision for the California native. According to the source, Alabama’s staff sees Gazzaniga’s size and athletic tools as a possible fit at tight end—should a position switch ever be considered.
“He’s raw, but the physical traits are there,” the source said. “He’s a smart kid, a great teammate, and he wants to contribute however he can. There’s definitely a chance he could grow into another role if that opportunity presents itself.”
For now, Gazzaniga remains focused on learning the offense, adjusting to the speed of SEC football, and contributing in any way possible to help the team prepare week-to-week. His presence in the locker room and on the practice field will only enhance Alabama’s depth and competition at key positions.
Importantly, team insiders emphasize that his addition does not indicate any looming transfers or roster shakeups. The quarterback depth chart remains intact, and Alabama continues to project confidence in the trio of Simpson, Mack, and Russell to lead the program into the 2025 season.
Still, for a walk-on without the fanfare of a signing ceremony or NIL buzz, John Gazzaniga represents the kind of underdog story Alabama fans love to rally around. Whether he sticks at quarterback or transitions into another role, his size, work ethic, and football IQ make him a name worth watching as the Crimson Tide enters a new era.
