Nick Saban is a coaching legend, a master evaluator of talent who has built a dynasty at Alabama. But even the best make mistakes, and Saban’s misjudgment of Micah Parsons could go down as one of his biggest blunders.
Parsons, now a superstar linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school. But when Alabama offered him a scholarship, they wanted him to play running back. Running back! Can you imagine Parsons, with his speed, power, and ferocity, carrying the ball instead of chasing down quarterbacks?
Thankfully, Parsons chose Penn State, where he quickly became one of the most dominant defensive players in college football. He then opted out of the 2020 season and was drafted by the Cowboys, where he’s continued his reign of terror on opposing offenses.
Saban’s misjudgment of Parsons is a reminder that even the best coaches can be wrong. It’s also a testament to Parsons’ incredible talent and versatility. He’s a generational player who can excel at any position, and the Cowboys are lucky to have him.
But imagine if Saban had recognized Parsons’ true potential as a pass rusher. The Alabama dynasty might have been even more dominant, and Parsons might have already added a few more national championships to his resume.
This is a story of what could have been, a reminder that even the best make mistakes. But it’s also a celebration of Micah Parsons’ greatness, a player who defied expectations and became one of the NFL’s most feared defenders.
