Nick Saban Comeback? Greg McElroy Says It’s on the Table

During an appearance on ESPN’s College Football Live, analyst Greg McElroy revealed that someone “in the know” believes legendary coach Nick Saban is not done calling plays, and could return to the sidelines.

McElroy defended the remark, adding, “If it wasn’t someone notable, I would never say a word,” highlighting both the credibility of his source and the gravity of the speculation.

McElroy stopped short of revealing the identity of his source or the timeline for Saban’s possible return. The comments, however, carry significant weight given McElroy’s time as an SEC quarterback and close, firsthand perspective on Saban’s coaching influence. That kind of inside intelligence tends to draw attention in coaching circles.

From a Big 12 standpoint, the possibility of Saban returning to coaching could have ripple effects across the landscape of college football. Any reemergence by Saban, whether it leads to a new SEC gig or a return to Alabama, would shift the narrative and competitive balance in Power 4 conference coaching dynamics. Rival leagues like the Big 12 monitor such developments closely, knowing one high-profile hire can reshape recruiting, media coverage, and even playoff positioning.

As college football’s coaching carousel heats up this offseason, McElroy’s hint raises multiple intriguing questions: Will Saban bubble back quietly, or make a splashy comeback? Which programs would vie for his services?

McElroy’s source cracked open the door on a national coaching story with serious implications. For the Big 12, it is not just idle speculation, it represents potential disruption in leadership across college football.