On Thursday, a day after Nick Saban’s retirement announcement, an update on Alabama’s coaching search indicated a swift pace. Logical targets like Dan Lanning, Steve Sarkisian, and Mike Norvell opted to stay with their current programs, receiving raises and new contracts. The focus then shifted to Washington’s Kalen DeBoer.
ESPN reports that Alabama and DeBoer are in negotiations for him to take over the Tide, and sources confirm ongoing discussions. Washington made a strong push to retain DeBoer, offering to double his current base salary of $4.2 million annually. The Huskies’ head coach missed a scheduled radio appearance, sparking speculation about his candidacy for the Alabama job.
DeBoer brings an impressive resume, having achieved success at Sioux Falls (NAIA) with a 67-3 record, three national titles, and a runner-up finish. He served as offensive coordinator at various schools before landing his first major college head coaching opportunity at Fresno State. In two seasons, he went 12-6 before taking over the Washington job in 2022.
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Since joining Washington, DeBoer has earned back-to-back Pac-12 Coach of the Year honors, achieving an 11-2 record in his first season and leading the team to a 14-0 run, securing the Pac-12 title. With a track record of success at every level, DeBoer holds a 104-12 record as a college head coach.