Introduction
Nick Saban is an iconic name in college football, renowned for his intense leadership, the so-called “Process,” and a record-breaking coaching career that redefined success at the University of Alabama and beyond. Since retiring, fans continue to ask: What is he doing now? This article explores his post-retirement activities and celebrates the seven national championships he secured during his legendary run.
1. The Legend: Nick Saban’s Championship Legacy
Nick Saban is the most decorated head coach in modern college football history:
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Seven national championships total — one with LSU (2003), and six with the University of Alabama (2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020)
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At Alabama, he also won nine SEC titles and became the defining figure in the school’s dynasty.
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His overall college head coaching record stands near 297–71–1.
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Saban also earned numerous Coach of the Year awards, including Associated Press and Eddie Robinson recognitions, and was a no-brainer Hall of Fame induction choice in 2025.
2. Retirement & Why He Stepped Away
In January 2024, after 17 seasons and unparalleled success at Alabama, Nick Saban announced his retirement as head coach.
Though rumors swirled that the changing landscape of college football—namely NIL deals and the transfer portal—prompted his departure, analysts argue it was more about the direction of the sport and his personal priorities. Saban himself cited disillusionment with a system heavily focused on immediate player payoff and a shift away from long-term value and player development.
3. What Is Nick Saban Doing Now?
A. College Football Analyst & Media Personality
Since retiring, Saban has taken up a prominent role in sports media. He appears regularly on ESPN’s College GameDay, where his strategic insights and calm professionalism stand out—earning him a Sports Emmy for Emerging On-Air Talent.
B. Adviser to Alabama Football
While not coaching, Saban remains connected to the program as an adviser for Alabama Football, contributing knowledge and continuity to the program he built.
C. Public Advocate & Thought Leader
Saban has also emerged as a thoughtful voice on college sports policy. He recently supported Deion Sanders’ proposal to compensate players for participating—and winning—in the College Football Playoff, advocating for a fairer, more equitable system.
D. Enjoying Life Beyond the Sidelines
Away from broadcast booths and boardrooms, Saban is relishing a slower pace. His daughter shared that he’s taken up boating and other leisurely pursuits, embracing relaxation after decades of nonstop coaching. Nick Saban championships.
4. Retirement Rumors & His Firm Rejection
Despite persistent speculation about a potential return to coaching, Saban has been emphatically clear:
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In mid-2025, he stated he had “never thought about” returning to the sideline.
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At the 2025 Nick Saban Legacy Awards, he humorously rebuked rumors, affirming satisfaction with retirement, ESPN work, and that “there is no opportunity … that would entice me to go back to coaching”.
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Again, on Fox & Friends, he reiterated that nothing currently interests him enough to return citing that it’s “another station of life now” .
Some whisper he might return if the right opportunity emerged—but Saban remains mostly amused and unbothered by such speculation. Nick Saban championships.
5. Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total National Titles | 7 (1 with LSU, 6 with Alabama) |
| Retirement | Announced January 2024 after 17 seasons at Alabama |
| Current Roles | ESPN College GameDay analyst, adviser to Alabama Football, public advocate |
| Leisure | Enjoying boating, family time, and stepping away from football’s grind |
| Return to Coaching? | Firmly stated “no”—he’s settled into this as a new phase of life |
Conclusion
Nick Saban’s legacy in college football is sealed: seven national championships, a transformative tenure at Alabama, and a reputation for excellence. Now retired from coaching, he has transitioned seamlessly into media, leadership, and relaxation—continuing to shape the sport quietly and meaningfully. While rumors may swirl, Saban remains steadfast: this is the chapter he’s in now—and he’s thriving within it.
