Swinney Turns Down Alabama Job, Sticks With Clemson

After Nick Saban's 2024 retirement, Clemson's Dabo Swinney passed on the chance to lead Alabama's football program. The two coaches spoke about the position, but Swinney chose to stay at his current post.

"Nick called me the next morning early, and we had a good conversation about a lot of things, but I'm where I'm supposed to be, and that's the main thing," said Swinney, according to ESPN.

Back in '89, Swinney started as a walk-on at Alabama under Bill Curry. He won it all with the Tide in '92. His coaching stint there ran from '96 to 2000, building strong ties to the program.

The Crimson Tide picked Kalen DeBoer to fill Saban's shoes. Fresh off leading Washington to the College Football Playoff title game, DeBoer steps into one of college football's most-watched roles.

At Clemson, Swinney's teams have knocked off Alabama twice to win national titles. Since taking charge in '09, his squads have dominated the ACC with nine championships.

The Tigers sit at No. 6 in next season's US LBM Coaches Poll. With 16 players back, including star QB Kade Klubnik who threw for over 3,600 yards, they're primed for another big run.

Alabama's influence still runs through Clemson's coaching ranks. Safety coach Mickey Conn played with Swinney in college. Former Tide QB Andrew Zow, who clinched an SEC crown in '99, joined the staff three years ago.

Inside sources told ESPN that Swinney wasn't seriously considered for the Bama job. Some Tide fans even protested outside the stadium against his potential hiring.

"After 23 years, this is home," Swinney stated to ESPN about Clemson, putting an end to speculation about a return to his alma mater.