Nick Saban might be coming back. The college football world was rocked Monday after Greg McElroy, former Alabama quarterback and current ESPN analyst, revealed a stunning claim from a well-connected insider. Speaking on Birmingham’s “Mac and Cube” show, McElroy said that someone he knows believes Nick Saban will return to coaching.
Saban, who stepped down from Alabama in early 2024 after winning seven national titles, may not be finished yet. The unexpected statement has ignited rampant speculation about a possible comeback from the legendary coach.
Nick Saban Comeback? McElroy’s Inside Source Suggests Nick Saban May Return to Sidelines
Speculation surrounding a possible return to coaching by Saban has surged after McElroy shared surprising insight during a recent interview. Speaking Monday on Birmingham’s “Mac and Cube” show, McElroy said he heard from a “very much in-the-know person” who strongly believes the seven-time national champion could return to the sidelines.
“A very much in-the-know person that I have a lot of respect for and have spent a lot of time around and just really, really admire, they seem to think Nick Saban is not done coaching,” McElroy said. “He’s pretty adamant that he thinks Nick Saban will be coaching again.”
REPORT: Greg McElroy said a person ‘in the know’ believes Nick Saban will return to coaching
“If it wasn’t someone notable, I would never say a word.”
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— On3 (@On3sports) July 14, 2025
McElroy emphasized the credibility of the source, calling them “notable” and stating that he would not have shared the information if it hadn’t come from someone he trusts.
“This is a little bit out of left field, but the question was asked of me,” McElroy continued. “If it wasn’t someone notable, I’d never say a word.”
While the idea of a comeback electrified fans across the college football world, reactions varied.
“Teaming up with Joey McGuire and it’s been part of Cody Campbell’s secret plan,” one fan speculated.
Another added,“This would imply that he was pushed out at Alabama to make him retire. I doubt that was the case, so if anything I could see him temporarily taking back Alabama until they find a coach that is the right fit.”
Just when ESPN thought they had their Corso replacement
— Anthony Russo (@Anthony_Russo97) July 14, 2025
“He’s still recruiting behind the scenes at Bama, Kalen DeBoer is just a puppet,” another remarked.
“He isn’t coming back… lol nobody can afford him.” another quipped. “He’ll be working for Kirby soon,” another fan remarked
Paul Finebaum Calls Saban Return Unlikely Amid Coaching Rumors
McElroy discussed the topic with Paul Finebaum during the show. Finebaum dismissed the rumor outright. “No,” he said when asked if he believed it. He cited Saban’s current lifestyle and apparent contentment.
“I ran into somebody the other day who spends time with Saban in Florida… and said that he is literally having the time of his life,” Finebaum said. “You start playing golf at the best golf clubs in America… the interest in doing what he walked away from is not very high.”
Since retiring, Saban has joined ESPN’s “College GameDay” as an analyst. Alabama named its field after him, and he was selected for the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame class.
Saban, now 73, officially stepped away from coaching on January 10, 2024, concluding a 28-year collegiate head coaching career. His tenure included stops at Toledo (1990), Michigan State (1995–99), LSU (2000–04), and a legendary 17-year run at Alabama, where he secured six of his seven national championships.
