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SEC Media Days Fuel Speculation on Nick Saban Coaching Return

Insiders offered conflicting assessments of Saban’s willingness to leave his ESPN analyst role for a coaching return

Alabama football coach Nick Saban stands on the turf inside Bryant-Denny Stadium during his team's media day in 2019.
Nov 25, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban shouts from the sidelines against the Auburn Tigers during the fourth quarter at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
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Nick Saban commentates on the ESPN College Gameday desk prior to the 2024 SEC Championship between the Texas Longhorns and the Georgia Bulldogs at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 07, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Overview

  • Greg McElroy said an insider believes Saban is not done coaching but later added he would be shocked if Saban returned to the sidelines
  • Lane Kiffin voiced confidence that Saban will coach again, suggesting a comeback could occur in college or the NFL
  • Paul Finebaum countered that Saban is “having the time of his life” in retirement and unlikely to give up his current lifestyle
  • Kirby Smart noted Saban remains passionate about football analysis yet stressed that any decision to coach again would rest with his wife, Terry
  • Kalen DeBoer highlighted Saban’s advisory role at Alabama, his work on College GameDay and his earned freedom to choose his next step