A closer look at what recruitment looks like for post-Nick Saban Alabama

With the exit of Nick Saban and the introduction of new head coach Kalen DeBoer, there was bound to be some turnover on the Alabama Crimson Tide roster. After all, there's a 30-day transfer window that opens specifically for coaching changes like this.

After years of dominance, however, Alabama fans likely have been surprised by the quantity and quality of players announcing their departure from what's long been considered one of the sport's best programs. 

Iron Bowl hero Isaiah Bond is now a Texas Longhorn, something he called a "business decision" but might be viewed a little more emotionally in Tuscaloosa. Bond joins four others who've announced their departure since Saban's retirement: linebacker Shawn Murphy, tight end Amari Niblack and defensive backs Dezz Ricks and Antonio Kite, as reported by The Athletic. And before Saban left, other players were already making their way elsewhere, including safety Jake Pope, who's now a Georgia Bulldog. 

All of this roster churn is likely weighing on the fans, but as for the players, those who have decided to remain under DeBoer seem more motivated than ever to keep the program at college football's peak. Not only is quarterback Jalen Milroe returning, but so too are many defensive players who made an impact on this season's team, which many felt was a return to form after years of lesser defenses. 

Linebacker Jihaad Campbell, hero of the Tennessee game? He's coming back. So are Malachi Moore and star linebacker Deontae Lawson, who was second on the Tide with 67 tackles despite missing three games due to injury. Furthermore, those veteran leaders are still active in recruiting — or, in this case, re-recruiting — elite players like five-star wide receiver Ryan Williams, who was committed to the Tide but de-committed after Saban's retirement. 

Despite that decision, Williams has seemed supportive of the DeBoer hire, liking tweets encouraging him to re-commit to the Tide. And when he visited College Station and posted a picture to Instagram, players like Moore, Lawson and fellow wide receiver Amari Jefferson were sure to let him know that they believe he belongs in Tuscaloosa, commenting with elephant emojis and a thumbs down under his post.

Will that kind of player involvement be enough to land Williams, other recruits who are considering rival schools and even current players weighing their options? It remains to be seen. But a good portion of the team seems to be very excited about what DeBoer can do in Tuscaloosa. Now we only have to wait until fall to see if they're right.