Former Alabama QB Dylan Lonergan Commits to Boston College
Boston College has landed a significant addition to its football program, as former Alabama quarterback Dylan Lonergan has committed to the Eagles. The news comes with an intriguing backstory: Lonergan, a highly touted Top 100 recruit in the 2023 class, was initially recruited to Alabama by Boston College head coach Bill O’Brien during his stint as the Crimson Tide’s offensive coordinator. This reunion could be a game-changer for both Lonergan’s career and the Eagles’ program.
Dylan Lonergan arrived at Alabama in 2023 as one of the most sought-after quarterback prospects in the nation. Ranked as a Top 100 recruit, Lonergan was celebrated for his combination of arm strength, accuracy, and mobility. Standing at 6’2” and weighing 215 pounds, he possessed the physical tools that coaches covet in modern quarterbacks.
Coming out of Brookwood High School in Snellville, Georgia, Lonergan was not only a star on the gridiron but also an accomplished baseball player. His dual-sport prowess added to his appeal, and several Power Five programs pursued him heavily during the recruiting process. Ultimately, Lonergan chose Alabama, drawn by the program’s history of producing NFL-ready quarterbacks and O’Brien’s offensive expertise.
Despite his immense talent, Lonergan found himself buried in Alabama’s deep quarterback room, which featured other highly regarded players like Jalen Milroe, Ty Simpson, and fellow 2023 recruit Eli Holstein. The fierce competition limited Lonergan’s opportunities to see the field during his freshman year, and with Alabama’s quarterback situation still unsettled heading into the future, he decided to explore his options in the transfer portal.
Sources close to Lonergan say his decision to transfer was driven by a desire to find a program where he could grow as a leader and maximize his playing time. Enter Boston College and Bill O’Brien.
The connection between Lonergan and O’Brien cannot be overstated. As Alabama’s offensive coordinator in 2021 and 2022, O’Brien played a pivotal role in recruiting Lonergan to the Crimson Tide. He saw the quarterback’s potential early on and valued his ability to thrive in a pro-style system.
Now, as the head coach at Boston College, O’Brien has a chance to develop Lonergan in a system tailor-made for his skills. O’Brien’s NFL pedigree and offensive creativity are well-known, and this pairing could unlock Lonergan’s potential as a college quarterback.
For Boston College, this commitment is a significant win. The Eagles have struggled in recent years to find consistent quarterback play, and Lonergan’s arrival brings a fresh wave of optimism. With his pedigree and talent, Lonergan has the potential to elevate BC’s offense and help the program compete in the highly competitive ACC.
The Eagles finished 3-9 in 2023, with inconsistency on offense being a major issue. Adding Lonergan provides the team with a high-upside player who could stabilize the quarterback position for years to come.
For Lonergan, Boston College represents a fresh start and an opportunity to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage. He’ll have the chance to lead an offense built around his strengths, with O’Brien’s trust and familiarity serving as a solid foundation.
While it’s unclear whether Lonergan will step in as the immediate starter or compete for the job in 2024, his commitment signals a clear intent to make an impact. If he lives up to his potential, he could be the centerpiece of a Boston College resurgence.
Dylan Lonergan’s commitment to Boston College marks a turning point for both the player and the program. For Lonergan, it’s a chance to grow into the quarterback many envisioned during his high school days. For Boston College, it’s an opportunity to revitalize their offense and compete at a higher level in the ACC.
The reunion with Bill O’Brien adds a compelling narrative to this move, as the coach who initially believed in Lonergan’s potential will now have the opportunity to guide him once again. As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Chestnut Hill to see how this partnership unfolds. If Lonergan thrives under O’Brien’s system, Boston College could have found the cornerstone of their future success.