Nick Saban will continue to be involved within the Alabama football program even in his retirement.
The former head coach has assumed a new role as an advisor to the team, as confirmed by Alabama’s athletic director, Greg Byrne, during an appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show.
Byrne expressed his appreciation for Saban’s continued involvement, highlighting the wisdom of having such a football icon contribute to discussions on coaching, football strategy, decision-making, and leadership. He emphasized the valuable insights that Saban can bring to the table, stating, “I’m not very smart. Many people know that, but I’m smart enough to know when you have a chance to have Nick Saban involved with talking about coaching and football and decision-making and leadership, shame on me if I don’t take advantage of that.”
Saban’s influence extends beyond advisory roles; he has personally reached out to recruits who had previously committed to playing under his guidance. This gesture serves to reassure these young athletes about the future of the program. According to Byrne, Saban has been actively engaged in communicating with these recruits and reinforcing their confidence in the team’s direction. Byrne expressed his satisfaction with Saban’s ongoing involvement, saying, “He’s been very helpful trying to talk to the young men that he’s recruited here and just again say, ‘We’re in a really good spot going forward.’ And he’ll continue to be here and be part of our program, and we’re very happy for that.”
Greg Byrne to @finebaum on Nick Saban’s role. “He is going to be an advisor for us. He’s been awesome.”
— Nick Kelly (@_NickKelly) January 17, 2024
Kalen DeBoer, the new head coach succeeding Saban, has made it clear that he welcomes Saban’s presence and insights with open arms. DeBoer, who led Washington to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, emphasized his intention to grant Saban “100 percent access” to the program. DeBoer expressed his eagerness to learn from Saban, stating, “I would be a fool if that wasn’t the case. I would be a fool. I’m going to ask him that he shows up and make sure he gives me at least one thing every day. I’m sure he’s going to have 10, but I’m going to be good with that. But at least one thing that he sees that we can get better at.”
For those wondering about Saban’s physical presence within the program, Byrne clarified that Saban will maintain an office at Bryant-Denny Stadium, ensuring that his legacy and contributions to Alabama football endure.