The rumors were tantalizing, the speculation was rampant, and the fans were hopeful – could Nick Saban, the legendary Alabama head coach, be making a comeback to the sidelines? The whispers began circulating during SEC Media Days, fueled by a cryptic Instagram post from Saban’s daughter, Kristen. The post, which featured an old video of Saban taking the field at Bryant-Denny Stadium with his players, seemed to stir up old embers. Kristen’s caption, “Alabama’s walkout,” accompanied by her reply, “damn, I miss this,” had some Crimson Tide faithful wondering if Saban was hinting at a return.
However, the speculation was short-lived. Kristen quickly posted another story, putting the rumors to bed with a dose of reality. “Apparently some of y’all feel trolled by my last story of Nick’s walkout,” she said. “He’s not coming back to coaching. Hate to break it to you. You had your time.”
The news will come as a relief to some and a disappointment to others, but one thing is clear – Saban is enjoying his post-coaching life. The six-time national championship-winning head coach has been keeping busy with various TV gigs, including College GameDay on ESPN and NFL draft coverage.
The rumors, however, were not entirely unfounded. Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy had sparked the speculation on his radio show, citing a source that suggested Saban was considering a return. McElroy later clarified that he didn’t think Saban would actually return to coaching, but the damage was done – the rumor mill was already in full swing.
With Saban’s retirement solidified, Alabama fans can focus on the future under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, who enters his second season in charge. The Crimson Tide currently have the fourth-best odds to win the national title, according to FanDuel, and it seems they’re in good shape with DeBoer at the helm.
While Saban’s return to coaching may not be in the cards, his legacy continues to loom large over the college football landscape. And who knows? Maybe one day he’ll share more about his experiences in his upcoming book or other ventures. For now, though, the focus shifts to the new season and the promise of exciting football ahead.
