After dealing with unwanted speculation, Nick Saban quickly cleared the air on D.J. Durkin and his involvement with the University of Alabama in Friday’s press release.
Per Saban, Durkin has “not been hired in any capacity at UA.”
“D.J. Durkin is spending a few days with our staff in Tuscaloosa from a professional development standpoint,” Saban said. “He is simply observing our operation as many other coaches have done through the years.”
RELATED: Is Nick Saban wrong for having D.J. Durkin consult at Alabama?
Both Chip Kelly and Lane Kiffin were part of this program.
Kelly would consult before moving on to the National Football League, while Kiffin’s situation turned into him being hired at offensive coordinator.
Not saying that will happen for Durkin, but history is interesting. He is not expected to travel with the Crimson Tide to Miami, Fla., for the College Football Playoff semifinal game against Oklahoma.
Durkin spent two seasons as head coach at the University of Maryland (2016-17), prior to getting fired from the program and desiring to help Saban behind the scenes.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
