In the ever-dynamic landscape of football, few names carry as much weight as Nick Saban. Known for his incredible success at the college level, particularly with Alabama, Saban has become an icon who seems synonymous with dominance on the gridiron. However, recent chatter has surfaced about a possible return to the NFL for Saban, earmarked by none other than Colin Cowherd.
On The Herd, Cowherd speculated that if things don’t pan out with the current Dallas Cowboys head coach, Brian Schottenheimer, Saban could be the next man up for the Cowboys. This prediction has stirred quite a reaction among football fans. Cowherd stated, “I am convinced Nick Saban is returning to coach in the NFL and it will be with the Dallas Cowboys.” Even journalist Albert Breer seemed open to the idea, though acknowledging it wasn’t the most outlandish theory ever posited.
Nevertheless, the football community met this declaration with skepticism, citing several hurdles. A significant contention is the personality clash expected between Saban and Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, notorious for his hands-on approach. Saban was among the least tolerant of such interference during his brief NFL stint, something that fans haven’t overlooked. One fan quipped, “With Jerry? C’mon – Saban couldn’t and wouldn’t tolerate the Jones boys meddling. Not a chance in Haiti is Nick in Dallas.”
Moreover, Saban’s previous NFL experience stands as a testament to his preference for the college game. His two seasons at the helm of the Miami Dolphins from 2005 to 2006 ended with mixed results—an impressive 9-7 finish in his first season followed by a lackluster 6-10, after which he retreated to the college ranks. This move, in hindsight, paved the way for him to solidify his legacy, with seven national championships under his belt.
Some argue that trying to translate his unparalleled college success to the NFL could be an alluring challenge for Saban. He could be tempted by the rare opportunity to join the likes of Jimmy Johnson and Pete Carroll, who have thrived at both levels. However, betting on that motivation driving Saban back to the pro stage feels a bit like throwing a Hail Mary.
For now, Saban’s storied college career continues to be his defining narrative. Although the idea of his NFL comeback is intriguing, most would advise against making any wagers on it materializing. As one well-versed fan succinctly put it, “That’s a fantasy, not a forecast.”
