Alabama HC Kalen DeBoer congratulates predecessor Nick Saban for winning the "Icon Award" at the 2024 ESPYS Award

Kalen DeBoer will have a tough road to walk on in the 2024 college football season but he’s thankful for the opportunity to carry on the work of Nick Saban. The former Alabama coach retired in January after 17 seasons of dominating the college football scenario.

Saban was honored with the Icon Award at the 2024 ESPYS, and DeBoer just couldn’t wait to congratulate Saban. He tweeted on X, congratulating the former Alabama HC for his exploits.

“Congratulations Coach Saban! Well deserved!” DeBoer wrote.

DeBoer, who takes over the storied program, would like to continue Alabama’s dominance. He’ll appear for his first SEC Media Days from July 15-18.

"People ask, 'Why would you go to Alabama? Why?' DeBoer said (h/t CBS Sports). "There are a lot of really obvious answers ... It's second to none. I want to be around winning championships."

Acknowledging the immense pressure, the coach from South Dakota is driven by the desire to continue Alabama's tradition of winning championships.

Kalen DeBoer ready for Alabama challenge after Nick Saban's retirement

The former Washington Huskies head coach is ready to step into the formidable shoes of Nick Saban at Alabama. While some might shy away from the daunting challenge of replacing the legendary coach, DeBoer is accepting it with open arms. In an interview with USA Today, the Alabama HC said:

“Embracing the moment is a privilege that you get that comes along with being at a place like Alabama. So, enjoy it. ... This program has that expectation of being championship caliber and being involved in the playoff every single year. ...

“I’m going to put everything into this program every single day and have the confidence and belief that it will be enough to reach the goals and meet the expectations that this program has."

DeBoer isn't trying to be the perfect Nick Saban replacement. He aims to build on Saban's legacy. One good thing for the coach is that Saban still has an office in Alabama premises, and DeBoer would be wise to seek his advice.