TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Alabama football fans eagerly await the announcement of the new head coach to fill the void left by Nick Saban’s retirement. Three candidates have emerged as front-runners for the coveted position: Alabama offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, Florida State coach Mike Norvell, and Washington coach Kalen DeBoer. While the decision has yet to be finalized, meetings with Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne are expected to conclude soon, and an announcement could come as early as Friday, according to sources familiar with the process.
Tommy Rees, at just 31 years old, has quickly made a name for himself in the world of college football. He completed his first season as Alabama’s offensive coordinator in 2023, following years of coaching experience at Notre Dame. Rees played a pivotal role in transforming Alabama’s offense, particularly with the emergence of quarterback Jalen Milroe, who has become a standout player to watch for the upcoming 2024 season.
Mike Norvell, the current coach of Florida State, has caught the attention of Alabama’s decision-makers with his impressive track record of rebuilding programs. Norvell has steadily guided the Seminoles to success, taking the team from a mere three wins to 10 wins and the brink of a Playoff berth in just four seasons. With his adeptness in utilizing the transfer portal, Norvell could be an intriguing fit for the Alabama Crimson Tide. Recently, he celebrated the addition of offensive lineman Terrence Ferguson II from the NCAA transfer portal, showcasing his ability to attract top talent.
Kalen DeBoer, the head coach at Washington, has also emerged as a strong contender. Over the course of two seasons, DeBoer has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the Huskies, leading them to the national title game this past season. With a career record of 104-12 and an impressive 10-1 record against Top-25 teams, DeBoer has demonstrated his ability to excel at the highest level. His reputation as a calm and collected coach who can navigate any situation has garnered the respect of his colleagues.
While all three candidates bring unique strengths and experiences to the table, the decision-makers at Alabama face a crucial choice. The program’s legacy, paired with the challenges of the competitive SEC, make finding the right leader essential. It remains to be seen who will ultimately be selected to carry on the Alabama football tradition and lead the team into the future.
In the meantime, anticipation continues to build among fans and supporters as they eagerly await the news of Saban’s successor. Alabama’s next head coach will inherit a program with high expectations and a rich history of success. The decision will undoubtedly shape the future of Alabama football and have far-reaching implications across the college football landscape.