He has a tough act to follow at the University of Alabama, but Kalen DeBoer is thankful to be Nick Saban's successor. 

Saban turned in an incredible 17-year run as the Crimson Tide's head football coach. The accomplishments he earned were numerous, including six national championships, nine Southeastern Conference titles, four Heisman Memorial Trophy winners, several All-Americans, 100-plus players selected in the NFL Draft, and 47 first-round draft picks. He appreciates the accolades, but the thing Saban holds near to his heart was developing young men to be model people in the community. The 72-year-old captured the Icon Award on Thursday night at the ESPY's via ESPN. He shared a passionate speech that moved the audience.

RELATED: Nick Saban to be a contributing analyst at SEC Football Media Days

DeBoer could not let a moment of recognizing Saban go by. 

He reacted to the news on social media, congratulating Saban for the achievement. 

Congratulations Coach Saban!
Well deserved! https://t.co/zuAnl0CI10

— Kalen DeBoer (@KalenDeBoer) July 12, 2024

DeBoer has taken every piece of advice from Saban as he looks to continue Alabama's dominance. The 49-year-old is preparing for his first SEC Media Days next week and first preseason camp with the team on Wednesday, July 31.

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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.