ESPN reporter weighs in.
Reporter Who Broke Nick Saban’s Retirement Story Clarifies Stance on Return Rumors originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Nick Saban retired on January 10, 2024, capping a 28‑year head‑coaching career that included stops at Toledo, Michigan State, LSU and, most famously, Alabama.
At Alabama alone, he compiled a 206–29 record over 17 seasons, won six national championships and claimed 11 SEC crowns. Overall, Saban finished 292–71–1 in college football, plus a brief NFL stint with the Miami Dolphins in 2005-06, and never endured a losing season at the collegiate level.
Despite retiring from coaching, speculation over a potential return has never fully quieted.
On Monday, former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy added fuel to the fire in a radio segment in which he said that a "notable" source suggested Saban isn’t quite done with coaching.
Shortly afterwards, ESPN senior writer Chris Low, who originally broke news of Saban’s retirement, was asked about the likelihood of Saban returning.
Low said, "I don’t see it. I think when he made that decision to walk away, it was for good…and I don’t ever see him get back in the NFL or college, given the current climate."
ESPN’s Chris Low broke the news of Nick Saban’s retirement…does he think there’s a chance he returns to coaching? pic.twitter.com/7Bmizsf3yj
— Alabama Crimson Tide | AL.com (@aldotcomTide) July 14, 2025
In announcing his retirement in 2024, Saban cited the evolving college landscape, including expanded transfer portal rules, NIL complexities and an ever‑lengthening recruiting calendar, as factors in stepping away.
He reportedly told players and staff during a team meeting that he felt it was "the right time" to close this chapter.
His success in television work since retiring has made the return to coaching even less likely.
Shortly after announcing his retirement, Saban was hired as an analyst for College GameDay beginning in the 2024 college football season.
In May, Saban captured a Sports Emmy for Outstanding Personality/Emerging On‑Air Talent thanks to his contributions on ESPN’s college football coverage.
Related: Lane Kiffin Makes Bold Prediction About Nick Saban Amid Return Rumors
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
