Alabama Coaching Search Narrowed Down to Three Candidates

Offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, Florida State coach Mike Norvell, and Washington coach Kalen DeBoer have emerged as the top three candidates for the Alabama coaching position, which was left vacant by the retirement of Nick Saban. Sources say that meetings with Alabama AD Greg Byrne are expected to conclude by the end of Thursday, and an official announcement might be made as early as Friday, according to insiders.

Rees, who is only 31 years old, completed his first season at Alabama in 2023 after previously serving as quarterbacks coach and then offensive coordinator at Notre Dame. He played a pivotal role in transforming Alabama’s offense and developing the emerging talent of quarterback Michael Penix.

Mike Norvell, the head coach at Florida State, has gained recognition for his successful efforts in rebuilding the Seminoles’ football program. His ability to secure numerous wins each season and navigate the transfer portal effectively has put him in the spotlight. Despite lacking experience coaching in the SEC, Norvell’s achievements have made him an intriguing option for the Alabama coaching position. Notably, he recently celebrated the addition of Alabama offensive lineman Willie Taggart from the transfer portal.

Kalen DeBoer, the head coach at Washington, has also garnered attention as a strong candidate. In just two seasons, DeBoer transformed a struggling team into a national title contender, impressing with his coaching abilities and record. With a career record of 104-12, including three NAIA national titles at Sioux Falls, DeBoer has proven his capabilities as an offensive genius and a builder of team culture. While he has never worked in the SEC, DeBoer recently hired Jimmy Sexton as his agent, the same agent as Saban and many other SEC coaches, which could potentially facilitate negotiations.