Alabama football coach Nick Saban is concluding his illustrious tenure with the Crimson Tide after 17 seasons, according to CBS Sports (Nick Saban, the head coach of Alabama football, declares his retirement).

Nick Saban, the head coach of Alabama football, declares his retirement

With a remarkable coaching career, Saban has secured seven national titles, the latest in 2020. ESPN initially reported Saban’s retirement, later confirmed by sources to 247sports’ Matt Zenitz, who revealed that Saban conveyed his decision to Alabama on Wednesday. Saban and Alabama officially acknowledged the retirement Wednesday night.

Expressing gratitude, Saban stated, “The University of Alabama has been a very special place to Terry and me. We have enjoyed every minute of our 17 years being the head coach at Alabama as well as becoming a part of the Tuscaloosa community.”

Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne hailed Saban as one of the greatest coaches across all sports, emphasizing the university’s fortune in having him lead the football program for the past 17 seasons. Reflecting on Saban’s legacy, Byrne noted, “While his time as our coach may have come to an end, his legacy will live on forever.”

Nick Saban, the head coach of Alabama football, declares his retirement

The Crimson Tide’s journey in the 2023 College Football Playoff ended with a 27-20 overtime loss to the eventual national champion Michigan Wolverines in the semifinal game.

Saban’s seven national titles make him the most decorated college football coach, tying with legendary Alabama coach Bear Bryant for the most titles in Crimson Tide history, with six.

Alabama President Stuart R. Bell conveyed deep appreciation for Saban’s leadership and service, stating, “His commitment to excellence has set the standard for our program, both on the field and in the classroom.”

Saban’s coaching career included stints in the NFL and other college teams, with his first title coming in 2003 at Louisiana State University. After coaching the Miami Dolphins in the NFL, Saban took the helm at Alabama in 2007, transforming the program into a football powerhouse with national titles in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020.

Despite the recent semifinal loss, Saban expressed pride in the team’s accomplishments during the 2023 season, acknowledging the lessons that failures bring.