When Nick Saban retired as the head coach of Alabama football in January 2024, it appeared to be a definitive end to his storied career. He transitioned into a life of more frequent golf and a successful role as an analyst for ESPN, seemingly content to leave behind the daily demands of modern college sports.
However, recent speculation suggests a return to the sidelines might not be out of the question. During his WJOX radio show in Birmingham, former Crimson Tide quarterback Greg McElroy revealed he had spoken with a highly respected and well-informed source who believes Saban will coach again.
“A very much in the know person… they seem to think Nick Saban is not done coaching,” McElroy stated, adding that his source was “pretty adamant” about the possibility. McElroy stressed he would not have shared the information if the source wasn’t a “notable” figure.
Despite initiating the rumor, McElroy later expressed his own skepticism. “You want my personal opinion? I think he’s done,” he said on ESPN. “I’d be shocked [if he came back].”
ESPN personality Paul Finebaum, a frequent commentator on SEC football, firmly dismissed the idea of a comeback. He argued that Saban, 73, left an ideal situation at Alabama that would be impossible to replicate elsewhere.
“He had a better situation at Alabama the day he left than he’ll have anywhere he goes,” Finebaum said. He described Saban’s current life as idyllic, filled with lucrative speaking engagements, an Emmy-winning television career on College GameDay, and invitations to exclusive golf clubs.
“He’s having the time of his life,” Finebaum noted. “Why would you give all that up at the age of 74? … It makes no sense except that Nick Saban is the most competitive human being on the planet.”
Saban’s decision to retire was partly influenced by his frustration with the current state of college football, including changes to Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules and transfer regulations. His final season saw Alabama reach the four-team College Football Playoff, ending with a loss to Michigan. While Saban appears to be thriving in retirement, some speculate that if more structure is implemented following the landmark House v. NCAA settlement, the legendary coach could potentially be persuaded to return.
