Nick Saban amassed an extraordinary number of victories and captured six national championships during his legendary tenure as Alabama’s head football coach.
That historic era came to a close after the 2023 season, when Saban chose to retire, deciding it was time to step away. Since then, he has transitioned smoothly into broadcasting, becoming a prominent presence on ESPN’s College GameDay. But stepping away from coaching hasn’t meant severing ties with the Crimson Tide program he helped define.
Saban remains actively involved, and this past weekend offered a powerful reminder. With current head coach Kalen DeBoer away attending the funeral of freshman quarterback Keelon Russell’s twin sister, Saban stepped in for his successor.
Kierston Russell passed away on June 3. She had planned to enroll at Alabama alongside her brother this fall.
While DeBoer and several members of the team traveled to support the Russell family, Saban once again showed his enduring commitment to the program. During an official visit weekend for 2026 wide receiver recruit Cederian Morgan and his family, Saban stepped up to lead in DeBoer’s absence.
On Saturday, Saban returned to a familiar role—serving as Alabama’s de facto head coach—and offering the Crimson Tide yet another gift during a moment of sorrow.
On Saturday, both Cederian Morgan and fellow 2026 recruit Ezavier Crowell were hosted by none other than Nick Saban—a familiar face from their early recruitment days. Saban had begun recruiting both players before announcing his retirement after the 2023 season, making his presence this weekend feel like a full-circle moment.
For Morgan, a 4-star wide receiver, and Crowell, a 4-star running back—both in-state talents—the visit took on added meaning. Rather than meeting with current head coach Kalen DeBoer, who was attending a funeral, they were greeted by the coach who first introduced them to the Alabama program.
Here is Saban pictured with the two standout in-state recruits, once again playing a pivotal role in shaping the Crimson Tide’s future.
Saban coolly stepped in for DeBoer, filling the gap with his trademark poise and presence. Meanwhile, DeBoer was also demonstrating his deep commitment to the program—spending Saturday in Tupelo, Mississippi, attending the funeral of Kierston Russell, the sister of freshman quarterback Keelon Russell. In different places, both men were there for Alabama football in a moment that called for compassion and leadership.
DeBoer and Saban—Alabama’s present and past—each showed up for the Crimson Tide in meaningful ways this weekend. DeBoer offered his support in Tupelo, standing with one of his young players during a heartbreaking loss. Saban, meanwhile, reminded everyone he hasn’t lost his touch, stepping in with ease and charm to host top recruits. His familiar smile and natural ability to connect were on full display, proving that even in retirement, his influence in Tuscaloosa remains as strong as ever.
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