Nick Saban, the former coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide, has announced his retirement and paved the way for Kaeln Deboer to take over the reins. The 72-year-old veteran coach’s decision comes after spending 17 years with the team and collecting innumerable accolades with them. Now, as his time has come to an end, Deboer has made it clear that he will be asking for his advice along the way.

The former coach for the Washington Huskies was announced as the replacement for Nick Saban recently. As such, he realizes the immense pressure that comes with trying to fill Saban’s shoes. Though the fans have expressed sheer confidence in his abilities as a coach, Deboer will still be turning to Saban to lead the team in times of crisis. But even though the Alabama fans have accepted Deboer, it is prominent that they won’t be forgetting about Saban’s infinite legacy anytime soon.

Kalen Deboer shares his thoughts on Nick Saban’s retirement and what it means to the team

“Real leaders don’t have an ego, they have a desire to create the best outcome.” It looks like these are the words that Deboer wants to lead by as he ventures into Alabama territory as their newest HC. The 2022 Pac-12 coach of the year doesn’t have pride when it comes to asking for help and that’s exactly what he had to say about Saban.

Deboer said, “100 percent access to everything. I would be a fool if that wasn’t the case. I’m gonna ask him that he shows up and gives me at least one thing every day. I’m sure he’s going to have 10. I’m gonna be good with that. But at least one thing he sees that we can get better at.” Deboer holds Saban in the highest regard and realizes that his input would lead to a better outcome for the team’s success. Until, of course, Deboer gets a hang of it and is ready to lead with full-fledged freedom. Moreover, here’s a look at the rockstar welcome that Deboer received on his arrival to Alabama.

Deboer receives a warm welcome to Alabama by the fans as they swarm at the airport

Kalen Deboer was named as the 28th head coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide. After Saban’s exit, it was a surprise that the fans were so eager to receive Deboer at the airport. Deboer’s reputation seemed to precede him as the fans waited on him almost as if he was the Michael Jackson of the football world. Moreover, they even carried hilarious signs for him that read, “Welcome home coach” and more.

The pressure is going to be high- saying that is an understatement. Deboer will be looking to replace Nick Saban, the coach who stayed loyal to Alabama and gave it his all for 17 years. The responsibility that rests on his shoulders is going to be very heavy, but after his fair share of struggles, he is sure to witness success, as does every great coach in history.

Read more: With 17 Days Before Michigan Clash, How Are Nick Saban & Co. Preparing to Emerge Victorious?

Will Deboer be able to successfully take over from Nick Saban? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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