By Mmesoma 
Nick Saban may be retired from college football, but he hasn’t entirely closed the door on returning to the sidelines — just not in the way many Crimson Tide fans might hope.
In a recent interview, the 72-year-old coaching icon and former Alabama head coach revealed that if he were ever to return to coaching, it wouldn’t be in college football. Instead, he said the only scenario he’d consider is a return to the NFL.
> “If I ever coached again, it would be in the NFL,” Saban stated. “The landscape of college football has changed so much. I loved my time at Alabama, but I don’t see myself coming back to the college game.”
Saban’s remarks come as college football continues to undergo major shifts, including the rise of NIL deals, conference realignments, and expanded transfer portal freedoms — factors he has previously voiced concerns about.
> “It’s a different world now,” Saban added. “You’re constantly re-recruiting your own roster, navigating NIL, and trying to maintain the values of a program in an entirely new system. It’s challenging, and honestly, it’s not why I got into coaching.”
🏈 A Legendary College Career
Nick Saban retired in January 2024 after 17 seasons at the helm of the Alabama Crimson Tide, amassing a remarkable 201–29 record, six national championships, and nine SEC titles. His tenure cemented Alabama as the gold standard of modern college football.
Though widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in college football history, Saban also has NFL experience. He served as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach from 2005 to 2006, finishing with a 15–17 record before returning to the college ranks to build a dynasty in Tuscaloosa.
🔁 NFL Possibility?
While his brief stint in the NFL didn’t yield long-term success, Saban hasn’t ruled out giving it another try — particularly in a front-office or advisory capacity. However, he made it clear that he is not actively seeking a position.
> “It’s not something I’m chasing,” Saban clarified. “But if the right opportunity came along — with the right people, the right organization — I’d listen.”
NFL insiders have speculated that Saban’s leadership and football IQ could make him a valuable asset in a senior football operations role or even as a short-term coaching consultant.
🔒 Alabama’s New Era
Since Saban’s retirement, Alabama has transitioned into the Kalen DeBoer era. DeBoer led the Tide to a 10–3 record in his first season and has been praised for his ability to maintain Alabama’s competitive edge while adapting to the sport’s evolving landscape.
Still, Saban remains a revered figure in Tuscaloosa. He currently works as an analyst with ESPN and remains involved in leadership initiatives and youth development projects through the Nick’s Kids Foundation.
> “Alabama will always be part of my heart,” Saban said. “But coaching? If I ever do it again, it would be a different kind of challenge — and probably at the next level.”