Alabama football coach Nick Saban to retire: Report

Alabama football coach Nick Saban has informed the team that he plans to retire, The Tuscaloosa News reported, citing "sources."

Saban began coaching the Crimson Tide in 2007. During his tenure, he won six national championships, and led the team through two undefeated seasons.

Alabama's season ended earlier this month in a 20-27 loss against Michigan, who went on win the College Football Playoffs championship.

Prior to taking the position at Alabama, he was head coach at Toledo, Michigan State, LSU, and the Miami Dolphins. He also served as the defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns for three years.

Former Auburn football coach and Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville on Wednesday said in a statement provided to Just the News that "As a close friend and competitor for decades, I want to congratulate Nick Saban on a historic coaching career that achieved 7 national championships and 11 SEC championships-- accomplishments that may never be equaled."

"I have always admired his focus and his dedication to the game of football, to his players, and to the state of Alabama," he went on. "College football fans everywhere will miss Nick Saban on the sidelines every Saturday. I wish him well on his future endeavors and congratulate him on a well earned retirement."

Ben Whedon is an editor and reporter for Just the News. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter.