“I have no interest in leaving Alabama,” says Kalen DeBoer
Kalen DeBoer and athletic director Greg Byrne issued statements on Sunday confirming that the coach’s future lies at Alabama amid rumors about his job security and the unexpected announcement of another high-profile head coaching position.
After Sherrone Moore was fired with cause this week for having an inappropriate connection with a staffer, there have been many rumors that DeBoer is a candidate to take over at Michigan.
In his second season and first College Football Playoff appearance with the program, Nick Saban’s replacement in Tuscaloosa is under tremendous pressure.
In an interview this week, program alum Damien Harris stated that he believes DeBoer’s career is “on the line” when the Crimson Tide play their first-round game at Oklahoma. The team is 19-7 under DeBoer’s direction and has secured the No. 9 seed in the playoff bracket.
“My family and I are very happy in Tuscaloosa and remain extremely grateful for the support of President (Peter) Mohler, Greg Byrne, the board and so many others,” DeBoer stated in a statement. “My entire attention is on Alabama football and our preparations to play Oklahoma in the College Football Playoffs because we have an amazing opportunity ahead of us.
“I have not discussed any other job with anyone, and I have no desire to do so. I look forward to staying on as the University of Alabama’s head football coach because I am totally dedicated to this program.”
In addition to attaching his own comment, Byrne shared the original on social media.
“We are proud to have Coach DeBoer leading our football program at The University of Alabama,” Byrne stated. “He is a fantastic coach who helps our student-athletes grow both on and off the field. We are as dedicated to him as he is to this team, and we are excited to play him on Friday in the College Football Playoffs’ opening round.”
