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“NIL Has Changed Everything”: Johnny Manziel Speculates on the Reason Behind Nick Saban’s Departure From Alabama

Published 02/25/2024, 12:15 PM EST

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Nick Saban’s departure from Alabama Crimson after 17 seasons in charge has amazed many people in the football community. Constant speculations about the reasons for his unexpected departure have risen since he left. Johnny Manziel suggests that the evolving landscape of college football, particularly the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) regulations, has played a pivotal role in Saban’s decision to step away from the game altogether.

Manziel talks about the transformative impact of NIL on the game, emphasizing the changes in the presence of coaches with an orthodox approach like Saban. He highlights that the shift from traditional values of loyalty and integrity towards a more transactional approach driven by financial incentives has affected interpersonal relationships in the game.

Did Alabama fire Saban?

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As the speculations continue arising, many analysts and pundits have questioned if Alabama decided to fire Nick Saban before his eventual retirement. However, contrary to these speculations, it is crucial to clarify that their decision was mutual, citing age and health-related reasons as the main reasons behind his decision. “I think it’s made it so much more hands-on and continually having to stay on these guys because of how many people are in their not; it’s not the firm handshake anymore.” Johnny Manziel talks as he gives his perspectives on Saban’s departure from the sport.

Saban’s term at Alabama was characterized by unprecedented success, including six national championships and numerous conference titles. Even Colorado’s Coach Prime took to his social media to address the news of his retirement, citing the changes in the game as one of the main reasons for the ‘GOAT’s‘ retirement.

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How Saban’s Departure Affects Alabama

Nick Saban’s departure marks the end of an era at Alabama. However, for Alabama, this is finally a period of reflection to adapt according to the complexities of modern football and build their team around it. Saban had developed a close culture and a sense of community in the team. However, the NIL advent changes the dynamic, expecting players to function like machines.

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Fans have debated how irrespective of teams having an abundance of NIL money, it has always been about the players playing under a particular coach, especially if it is someone like Nick Saban. Alabama has registered 21 departures since Saban’s retirement, and irrespective of Kalen DeBoer’s pedigree, uncertainty still laments over the future of Alabama Crimsons.

Read Also:  Senior Bowl’s Director Tips Hat to Gridiron Greats: Nick Saban, Kalen DeBoer, and Stellar Coaching Lineup

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Written by:

Rajveer Gupta

123Articles

One take at a time

Rajveer Gupta is an NFL writer at EssentiallySports. As a college football beat writer and a soccer athlete himself, Rajveer covers every angle related to the Colorado Buffaloes with an in-depth analysis of their training and playing style. His unique blend of expertise and relatability sets him apart in sports journalism.
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Edited by:

Tripti Sarda