He has endured the twists and turns of college football, but the transfer portal culture is something Nick Saban does not understand sometimes.
Saban, 71, grew up in a time where commitment was everything. Nowadays, student-athletes can go where they feel the most catered to. He’s created a culture in Tuscaloosa (Ala.) where players want to be; however, Saban also knows Crimson Tide football is not for everyone. Several players have transferred from the University of Alabama in the last few years — including Javion Cohen, Tommy Brockermeyer, Agiye Hall, Traeshon Holden, Aaron Anderson, JoJo Earle, Christian Leary, Khyree Jackson, Jahquez Robinson, Tre’Quon Fegans, and Trey Sanders. Some fans wondered why receivers like Anderson, Earle, and Leary left — especially with the potential they have. Coach Saban would much rather build with the players who choose to remain.
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“I am not mentioning any names, but there was one player I was disappointed the guy did not stay here,” Saban said Wednesday.
“I did not understand why he was leaving. The rest of them would have contributed if they had stayed and had the right attitude, but it was their choice. What we have an opportunity to do when guys leave is we have an opportunity to replace them.”
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Alabama has replaced the departed athletes by recruiting well or getting experienced guys from the transfer portal.
No one will know which player Saban was disappointed to see leave, but his team is preparing for this season.
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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.
