TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Kalen DeBoer, an acclaimed football coach, has been selected as the head coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide, as announced by Director of Athletics Greg Byrne on Friday. DeBoer, who recently completed a two-season stint at Washington, brings a winning track record to Tuscaloosa.
“We are thrilled to welcome Kalen and Nicole DeBoer, along with their daughters, Alexis and Avery, to The University of Alabama,” said Byrne. “Coach DeBoer has showcased his leadership abilities and success at every coaching stop. It was essential for us to find not only a coach who excels technically but also someone who genuinely cares for their players. Kalen fits that mold perfectly. He is eager to begin his work and we anticipate him guiding the Alabama Crimson Tide for years to come. Our gratitude extends to President Stuart Bell, Chancellor Finis St. John, and The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees for their support throughout this process.”
During his nine seasons as a head coach, DeBoer has achieved outstanding results, winning a total of 104 games and only suffering 12 losses. This includes an impressive 25-3 record during his tenure at Washington. In 2023, DeBoer led Washington to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, secured the Pac-12 Championship, and achieved a program record of 14 wins in a single season.
Expressing his excitement, DeBoer stated, “I have always had tremendous respect for Alabama football and its dedication to excellence. The program’s unparalleled tradition and history within college athletics drew me in. Following in the footsteps of Coach Saban is an incredible honor. His success in college football is unparalleled. Leaving Washington was not a decision I took lightly. The opportunity to lead the football program at The University of Alabama is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. My family and I are incredibly grateful and excited to become part of the Tuscaloosa community. I would like to thank Director of Athletics Greg Byrne, President Stuart R. Bell, Chancellor Finis St. John, and The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees for their trust in my leadership.”
DeBoer’s achievements at Washington include becoming the first coach in the program’s history to secure 11 or more wins in consecutive seasons. He achieved an 11-2 record in 2022 and an impressive 14-1 record in 2023, resulting in back-to-back Pac-12 Coach of the Year awards. Additionally, DeBoer’s Washington teams boasted a remarkable 10-1 record against ranked opponents, and he holds an impressive 18-3 record in playoff games as a head coach.
President Stuart R. Bell expressed his enthusiasm for DeBoer’s appointment, stating, “I am thrilled to welcome Kalen DeBoer as the new leader of the Crimson Tide football program. With great enthusiasm for the future, we have utmost confidence that Coach DeBoer will uphold the proud tradition and excellence synonymous with Alabama Athletics. I extend my sincere gratitude to Athletic Director Greg Byrne for his exceptional leadership throughout this process. Furthermore, we appreciate Chancellor Finis St. John and The University of Alabama System Board of Trustees for their unwavering support.”
Prior to his time at Washington, DeBoer spent two seasons at Fresno State, achieving a 12-6 record and leading the team to the 2021 New Mexico Bowl. His coaching journey commenced at his alma mater, the University of Sioux Falls, where he spent five successful seasons (2005-2009), earning a remarkable 67-3 record, three NAIA national titles, and three national Coach of the Year awards.
Throughout his career, DeBoer has worked with notable players and received numerous accolades, including coaching the 2023 Maxwell Award winner, Michael Penix Jr. His coaching prowess has also been recognized through accolades like the Joe Moore Award, which was awarded to his offensive line. DeBoer’s impact extends beyond individual awards, as he developed three NAIA National Player of the Year winners and 25 first-team All-Americans at Sioux Falls.
DeBoer, a graduate of Sioux Falls with a degree in secondary education, excelled both academically and athletically. As a football and baseball student-athlete, he set records and played a crucial role in his teams’ successes. His accomplishments include compiling 3,400 yards and 33 touchdowns in football and maintaining a batting average of .520 in baseball.
In conclusion, Kalen DeBoer’s appointment as the head coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. DeBoer’s winning record, coupled with his commitment to player development, makes him an ideal fit for the prestigious football program. With support from the university’s leadership, DeBoer is eager to lead the Alabama Crimson Tide and continue the program’s tradition of excellence.