"One of the brightest football minds": $150 million-valued Nick Saban lights up Kalen DeBoer's arrival with a warm reaction 

Nick Saban has offered his endorsement to Alabama’s new coach Kalen DeBoer, as he's set to take over the helm of affairs at the program. DeBoer, who recently led Washington to the national championship game, was hired by the Crimson Tide to replace the retired Saban.

Speaking on the hiring by the program, where he spent 17 years, Nick Saban noted that Kalen DeBoer ranks among the brightest coaches in college football. He reckons the former Fresno State coach possesses a comprehensive understanding of being a successful coach in all aspects.

"He has a proven track record of success and is one of the brightest football minds," Saban said in a statement.

"Coach DeBoer has an excellent understanding of what it takes to be a successful head coach, whether it's coaching, recruiting, developing players or building a culture."

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Nick Saban and Miss Terry ready to support Kalen DeBoer

While Nick Saban believes the choice of Kalen DeBoer is a brilliant one for Alabama, the former coach is also ready to offer the needed help to DeBoer in Tuscaloosa.

Saban disclosed that he and Miss Terry will be out to help DeBoer and his family adapt to the new environment.

"He has done a fantastic job at every stop of his coaching career, and I am excited to see what he will be able to accomplish in Tuscaloosa. (Wife) Terry and I will be here to support Coach DeBoer and his family with anything they need."

Saban is believed to be a strong admirer of DeBoer's offensive philosophy, which is evident in his move to DeBoer's offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb ahead of the 2023 college football season. DeBoer now has a big shoe to fill replacing him at Alabama.

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Why did Nick Saban retire unexpectedly?

Nick Saban has disclosed that his age, which had presented mounting challenges was the reason for his unexpected retirement.

He expressed that it was becoming increasingly difficult for him to fulfill the responsibilities he had shouldered for his 17-season tenure.

"Last season was difficult for me from just a health standpoint, not necessarily having anything major wrong, but just being able to sustain and do things the way I want to do them, the way I've always done them.

"It just got a little bit harder. So you have to decide, 'OK, this is sort of inevitable when you get to my age.'"

Saban’s tenure in Tuscaloosa saw him win the Southeastern Conference championship nine times and the national title six times as he established himself as arguably the best coach in college football history.