Alabama could benefit from the college football coaching chaos

The past few weeks have been tough for many Alabama football fans. Not only did legendary coach Nick Saban retire in a move that surprised many, but some of the country's top talent has decided to go elsewhere. Fortunately for the Tide faithful, what goes around often comes around.

Because of Saban's departure, the portal is open for Alabama players to seek new homes, and stars like Caleb Downs, Julian Sayin and Kadyn Proctor have left for new teams. 

For teams whose coaches have not left, however, the portal is closed through April 16, meaning that for now, Alabama is losing far more talent than it's bringing in. 

Alabama fans can take heart, though, as the shoe may soon be on the other foot. 

Fresh off of a national title, Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh is in discussions to return to the NFL, interviewing for teams like the Los Angeles Chargers and Atlanta Falcons. If Harbaugh chooses to return to the professional ranks — he previously coached the San Francisco 49ers — then the Wolverines will be in the same situation as the Crimson Tide: Their talented roster will be up for grabs. 

While several Michigan stars have declared for the NFL draft, there will still be talented young players who are not yet draft eligible and who may be ready to move on after their coach departs. 

If Harbaugh were to go, it could also have a bit of a domino effect. 

One popular choice to replace Harbaugh: LSU coach Brian Kelly. If Kelly lands that job, then both Michigan and LSU players will be free to leave, giving Alabama a chance to fill out weak spots on its roster with high-level talent. 

Granted, the Kelly to Michigan scenario is nothing but a rumor at this point, but there's real momentum for Harbaugh to head back to the NFL. 

As Alabama learned all too well with Saban's departure, the world of college football moves fast. It might be Michigan and LSU learning that lesson next.