Two weeks in, Coach Kalen DeBoer’s whirlwind start in Tuscaloosa has had him recruiting not just future Tide players, but the current ones too. Following Nick Saban is no easy feat, and DeBoer’s early days have been a masterclass in roster retention.
On “The Dan Patrick Show,” DeBoer shed light on this unique challenge. “Recruiting our own guys” has become the mantra, he admitted, “crazy to say, but true in this portal era.” The departure of Saban initially left players adrift, but DeBoer and his staff have become life rafts, navigating choppy waters with steady hands.
While pundits dissect Alabama’s departures, DeBoer sees opportunity. “Sure, there’s been movement,” he acknowledged, “but this is still one of the nation’s elite rosters, top to bottom.” Keeping its core intact is a victory in itself, a testament to DeBoer’s early efforts.
It’s not just about Xs and Os. DeBoer understands the emotional landscape – the Crimson Tide pride, the Saban legacy. “They want this place to be great,” he said, “and they’ve embraced us, wanting to carry the torch.”
DeBoer’s arrival marked a crossroads for Alabama’s players. Would they stay the course, or seek new opportunities? The results so far have been mixed. There’s no hiding the fact that Alabama has lost quality players to the portal. But a strong nucleus remains. His success in keeping the Tide together paints a promising picture for the DeBoer era. And a good mix of incoming talent has been added. As the dust settles on offseason moves, one thing’s clear: Alabama’s new coach is not just recruiting talent, he’s building trust, brick by Crimson Tide brick.
