“Kalen DeBoer Coaches, But Nick Saban Gets the Applause—$10 Billion Program Still Runs on Saban Power!” — “Is Kalen DeBoer just keeping the seat warm, or did Nick Saban leave a playbook titled ‘How to Stay Relevant Forever’?”

Alabama football continues to bask in NFL Draft success, with seven players selected in the 2025 draft, including standout offensive guard Tyler Booker, who was picked 12th overall by the Dallas Cowboys. However, the narrative surrounding this success has spotlighted former coach Nick Saban, whose legacy overshadows current head coach Kalen DeBoer.

Saban’s impact on Alabama is unparalleled. During his 17-year tenure, he built a dynasty, securing seven national championships and developing a program that produced 123 NFL draft picks since 2009—more than any other school in the country. While DeBoer is tasked with sustaining this powerhouse, the shadow of Saban looms large, particularly during moments like the NFL Draft, where much of the credit for player development still circles back to Saban.

This year’s draft added to Alabama’s legacy, with Tyler Booker leading the charge. Booker, known for his leadership and skill, recorded 92 knockdown blocks over 778 snaps in his college career and earned First-Team All-American honors. His consistency and dominance on the offensive line made him an easy choice for the Cowboys, who valued his combination of physicality, intelligence, and toughness.

Despite Booker’s success under DeBoer, many attribute his rise to Saban’s groundwork. Saban recruited Booker in 2022, nurturing his potential during his freshman and sophomore years. In his comments following Booker’s selection, Saban described him as “a fantastic young man, a physical and smart player, and a leader on and off the field.”

The draft highlighted a growing challenge for DeBoer—carving out his own legacy while managing a program defined by Saban’s enduring influence. Since Saban’s departure, Alabama has seen some players explore transfer options, with NIL opportunities playing a role. However, Booker’s loyalty to Alabama reflects the culture instilled by Saban and reinforced by DeBoer.

Booker’s path to the NFL also shines a light on his roots at IMG Academy, where he was a standout player before transitioning to Alabama. His journey embodies the seamless pipeline from elite high school programs to collegiate powerhouses and, ultimately, professional success.

As Alabama continues its NFL Draft streak—producing at least seven picks annually for 14 consecutive years—the conversation around DeBoer’s role in maintaining this tradition intensifies. While Saban’s contributions are undeniable, DeBoer’s challenge lies in proving his ability to sustain and build upon the program’s success.

For now, the spotlight remains on Booker as he begins his NFL career, but Alabama’s journey under DeBoer will continue to draw scrutiny as the program seeks to forge a future that balances Saban’s legacy with new leadership.