Former Alabama Football Staffer Shares Candid Thoughts on Nick Saban’s Potential Return to Coaching Amidst Ongoing Speculation and Curiosity
In the ever-turning world of college football, one name continues to linger over every major coaching decision, every hot seat, and every media cycle—Nick Saban. Although the legendary Alabama head coach retired in January 2024 after 17 seasons in Tuscaloosa and seven national championships, the idea of his return continues to spark debate, especially as the 2025 season draws near. Recently, one former Alabama football staff member broke the silence and offered his honest thoughts on whether Saban might coach again—and his perspective is causing quite a stir in the college football world.
The comments didn’t come during a formal press conference or media appearance but rather in an interview on a podcast where the former staffer, who worked under Saban for multiple years in Tuscaloosa, was asked directly if he thought the 72-year-old coach was done for good. His response wasn’t a flat-out “no”—but it wasn’t a definitive “yes” either. Instead, it was measured, thoughtful, and steeped in the understanding of what makes Nick Saban tick.
This former assistant, whose name was not made public for privacy reasons but is widely believed to have worked with the program during the mid-2010s, said, “If the right opportunity presented itself, and it was a place where he felt he could win, I don’t think it’s impossible. But it would have to be a unicorn job—something that checks all the boxes. He’s not coming back just to coach. He’d come back to win it all.”
That sentiment reflects a growing belief in college football circles: Saban may be retired, but he’s not necessarily done. The door isn’t wide open, but it’s not locked either. The man who built a modern dynasty at Alabama might still have the competitive fire burning inside—especially if the right situation arises.
The speculation over Saban’s return has been fueled in recent months by comments from former players, TV analysts, and even rival coaches. Just last week, AJ McCarron, the former Alabama quarterback who won two national championships under Saban, went on record saying that the only school he could see potentially luring Saban out of retirement was Texas. “It would take a special place,” McCarron said. “He’s not coming back to rebuild a program. If he comes back, it’s because there’s a machine already in place, and he thinks he can take it to the top.”
That “machine” McCarron alluded to could point to several programs, including the University of Texas, which is entering its second season in the SEC under Steve Sarkisian. Sarkisian, ironically, is one of the many former Saban assistants who has found success after leaving Tuscaloosa, a list that includes Kirby Smart, Lane Kiffin, and Mel Tucker. And while Sark is currently safe in Austin, a disappointing season could change that quickly in a results-driven environment.
The idea of Saban returning to a program already rich in resources, talent, and infrastructure isn’t far-fetched. In fact, it’s exactly the type of situation he chose in 2007 when he left the Miami Dolphins and took over at Alabama—a sleeping giant with the potential to become a powerhouse. He didn’t start from scratch then, and he wouldn’t now.
But what’s driving this speculation? And why are insiders and former staffers even entertaining the possibility of a return?
According to the former Alabama staffer, Saban’s passion for the game hasn’t diminished. “He’s still around the sport every day. He watches film. He talks with former coaches. He’s still sharp, still in it mentally. Retirement gave him a break from the grind, but not from the love of football. The man lives and breathes it. That doesn’t just go away.”
Since retiring, Saban has taken on a new role as an analyst with ESPN, frequently appearing on “College GameDay” and providing insights during major games. His presence on the set has been well-received—Saban’s knowledge of the game, his polished communication style, and his deep understanding of strategy have made him a natural fit for the broadcast world. But according to those close to him, that’s not a permanent solution—it’s a new chapter, not the final one.
“He likes the media stuff, no doubt,” the former assistant said. “But you can see it in his eyes—he misses the competition. He misses game-planning, preparing the team, the whole process. That’s who he is.”
Of course, age is a major factor. Saban is 72 years old, and while he remains in excellent shape and mental sharpness, the physical and emotional toll of leading a program—recruiting, traveling, managing a massive staff, and dealing with booster politics—is enormous. Any return to coaching would require not just the right situation, but the right support system. That includes alignment with school administration, NIL infrastructure, and top-tier personnel already in place.
The idea that Saban would return simply for a paycheck is laughable to those who know him best. “It’s never been about the money,” the staffer said. “He’s got all the money in the world. What drives him is excellence. It’s about legacy. It’s about winning.”
Another factor that keeps the Saban rumor mill turning is the ever-changing landscape of college football. With NIL, the transfer portal, and conference realignment reshaping the sport, some believe Saban might view a return as a chance to prove he can adapt and dominate in this new era as well. After all, part of what made him the greatest coach of all time was his ability to evolve with the game. When offense changed, he changed. When recruiting shifted to digital and social media, he adapted. When NIL became the norm, he didn’t resist—he recalibrated.
Could he be looking for one more run at greatness in this chaotic, uncharted version of college football? It’s a tantalizing thought.
That said, there’s no indication that Saban is actively seeking a job or considering an immediate return. The 2025 season is set, and the top-tier coaching positions are filled—for now. But the nature of college football is volatile. All it takes is one high-profile job opening, one elite program that underperforms, and the whispers will become roars.
The former staffer concluded his thoughts by emphasizing that, regardless of what happens, Saban’s legacy is already cemented. “He doesn’t need to coach again. His place in history is secure. But if he wants to, if he feels that fire again and the right opportunity comes along… I wouldn’t be surprised.”
Fans, media members, and coaching insiders will continue to speculate, dissecting every public appearance and interview for hidden clues. For now, Saban appears content in his role as a broadcaster and mentor. But his competitive fire remains legendary—and legends rarely go quietly.
As the new college football season approaches, all eyes are on the sidelines. Not just to see who’s coaching—but to see who might be waiting in the wings to return. Nick Saban may have stepped away from the field, but his shadow still looms large over every major program in the nation. And until he officially says the word “never,” the door—no matter how slightly—remains ajar.
And if that door ever opens, it won’t be just Alabama fans paying attention. The entire college football world will be watching, waiting, and wondering—could the greatest of all time really make one last run at the mountaintop?
