Surprisingly, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe found himself in the dark after Nick Saban announced his shocking decision to retire from coaching.
Interestingly, many of Saban’s players were reportedly aware of the coach’s decision to retire, but Milroe was not among them.
When Alabama’s College Football Playoff run ended with a loss to Michigan at the Rose Bowl, fans held onto the hope of Saban leading the team for a few more years.
However, the announcement of his retirement – and the hiring of Kalen DeBoer as his replacement – came as a surprise to Milroe.
Reflecting on Saban’s departure, Milroe admitted he wasn’t prepared for the news, but he expressed understanding and respect for his former coach’s decision.
“Going back to everything that transpired once Coach Saban retired. I was unaware that he was going to retire but I do acknowledge why he retired and I understand why he retired. I’m so happy for him,” Milroe said.
Despite the surprise, Milroe’s relationship with Saban runs deep, developed over the years as part of Alabama’s powerhouse football program.
Saban has built a legacy not just through championships, but also through the relationships he’s forged with his players.
For Milroe, that bond goes way beyond the field.
“As athletes we always talk about life after football, what about life after coaching? You know he has so much life that he can experience and he can enjoy now that he’s done coaching the game of football,” he said.
“He loves football, and now he’s able to talk in the broadcasting room of football and talk about something he loves. So I’ll always support Coach Saban.”
Saban’s impact on his players has been far-reaching, and for Milroe, the coach’s next chapter is something to celebrate.
As we all know, Saban is keeping his toes wet in the college football world. He’s front and center on ESPN’s College GameDay each and every Saturday.
There’s also rumors that he’d be a leading candidate to be the sport’s commissioner should it ever come to that.
Meanwhile, the Tide seem to be in perfect hands with new coach Kalen DeBoer.
Alabama has raced off to a 2-0 start and figure to once again be legitimate national title contenders.
The road will get tougher this weekend when they travel to Madison for a showdown against the Wisconsin Badgers.
What are your thoguths on Milroe’s comments?
Are you surprised that he had no idea of Saban’s plans to retire? … Obviously, he’s not offended in any way of being left in the dark, nor should he be.
Having said that, do you think Saban regrets his decision in any way, shape or form? … Or do you think he’s truly made peace with it???