A history of Alabama football coaches, from Bear Bryant to current head coach Kalen DeBoer.

The Alabama Crimson Tide football program is one of the most storied and successful in the history of college football. Its rich tradition of excellence is intertwined with the careers of its legendary head coaches, from the iconic Paul “Bear” Bryant to the current head coach, Kalen DeBoer. Throughout its history, Alabama has produced a dynasty of coaches who not only achieved success but also shaped the culture of college football. This article will explore the history of Alabama football coaches, highlighting their achievements, impact, and legacies.

1. Paul “Bear” Bryant (1958–1982)

No discussion of Alabama football would be complete without the mention of Paul “Bear” Bryant. Widely regarded as one of the greatest college football coaches of all time, Bryant became the face of Alabama football for over two decades. He took over as head coach in 1958 and quickly turned the program into a national powerhouse.

Bryant’s coaching career was defined by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to mold players into champions. His approach was methodical and tough, earning him the nickname “Bear.” Bryant’s impact on Alabama was immeasurable: he won six national championships with the Crimson Tide (1962, 1966, 1975, 1977, 1978, and 1979) and 13 SEC titles. His teams were known for their dominance in the trenches, a strong running game, and a defense that was often impenetrable.

Bear Bryant’s coaching tree has produced numerous successful coaches, and his influence on Alabama football cannot be overstated. His 323 career wins are a testament to his legendary status, and his tenure set the standard for future coaches. Bryant retired after the 1982 season, leaving behind a program that was synonymous with success and a legacy that continues to shape Alabama football to this day.

2. Ray Perkins (1983–1986)

After Bryant’s retirement, Alabama turned to Ray Perkins, a former assistant coach under Bryant, to take the reins. Perkins had big shoes to fill, and though he had a successful tenure in some areas, his time at Alabama was marked by a mixed record.

Perkins led the Tide to a 32–15–1 record over his four seasons at the helm, including an SEC championship in 1986. However, the program was struggling to maintain the level of dominance established by Bryant, and Perkins faced challenges in keeping the momentum going. His tenure was marred by an inability to sustain Alabama’s previous glory, and in 1986, he was replaced by Bill Curry.

3. Bill Curry (1987–1989)

Bill Curry arrived at Alabama with the hopes of reinvigorating the program, but his tenure was short-lived. While Curry was a competent coach, he never fully meshed with the Alabama fan base, which had grown accustomed to the success of Bryant and Perkins. Curry posted a 26–10–1 record, but his inability to win big games and a lack of sustained success led to his departure after just three seasons.

Despite his relatively brief tenure, Curry did help keep the program competitive during a difficult transitional period and set the stage for future success under Gene Stallings.

4. Gene Stallings (1990–1996)

Gene Stallings arrived at Alabama in 1990 and immediately had an impact on the program. Stallings had been an assistant coach under Bryant, and he brought the program back to prominence by instilling a sense of discipline, toughness, and physicality that Alabama fans had come to expect.

Under Stallings’ leadership, Alabama returned to national prominence. In 1992, he led the Crimson Tide to a national championship, defeating Miami in the Sugar Bowl. The team was built on a dominant defense, led by future NFL stars like Derrick Thomas and Antonio Langham. Stallings also won an SEC title in 1993 and compiled a 70–16–1 record during his seven-year tenure.

Stallings’ success with Alabama was built on strong defensive play, a tough running game, and a sense of unity that brought the team together. After the 1996 season, Stallings retired from coaching, leaving behind a team capable of competing at the highest level.

5. Mike DuBose (1997–2000)

Mike DuBose took over the Alabama program following Gene Stallings’ retirement, but his tenure was marked by struggles both on and off the field. DuBose led the Crimson Tide to an SEC title in 1999 but faced numerous challenges with recruiting, team discipline, and performance.

While DuBose’s 1999 SEC Championship was a high point, his overall record of 24–23 over four seasons was underwhelming. The Tide struggled to maintain consistency, and DuBose’s tenure came to an end after the 2000 season. His failure to recapture the dominance of previous Alabama teams led to his dismissal.

6. Dennis Franchione (2001–2002)

Dennis Franchione was hired in 2001 with the hopes of reviving the Alabama football program, but his two-year tenure was disappointing. Franchione arrived from TCU, where he had experienced success, but he failed to make a significant impact in Tuscaloosa. His teams were inconsistent, and his inability to recruit at the level expected at Alabama led to his departure after the 2002 season.

Franchione’s short tenure was marked by frustration, and his departure marked another chapter in the turbulent post-Bryant era at Alabama.

7. Mike Shula (2003–2006)

Mike Shula, a former Alabama quarterback, was hired in 2003 to bring stability to the program. Shula’s teams were competitive, but they lacked the necessary talent to compete for national championships. While he did lead Alabama to a bowl game in three of his four seasons, his tenure was marred by inconsistent performances and a lack of big wins.

Shula’s best season came in 2005, when Alabama finished 10–2 and earned a berth in the Cotton Bowl. However, his inability to elevate the program to the level expected by Alabama fans ultimately led to his firing after the 2006 season. Shula’s tenure was characterized by missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential.

8. Nick Saban (2007–Present)

Nick Saban was hired as head coach in 2007, and his arrival marked the beginning of a new era in Alabama football. Saban’s impact was immediate, and under his leadership, the Crimson Tide quickly regained their status as one of the premier programs in college football.

Saban’s coaching philosophy centers on discipline, consistency, and a balanced approach to both offense and defense. He rebuilt Alabama’s recruiting infrastructure, turning the Tide into an unstoppable force on the recruiting trail. Alabama’s success under Saban has been extraordinary: as of 2025, he has won six national championships (2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020) and has secured numerous SEC titles.

Saban’s ability to consistently recruit top talent, develop players, and adapt his coaching philosophy to the modern game has made him one of the greatest college football coaches of all time. His tenure at Alabama is unmatched, and he continues to lead the Tide with the same intensity and passion that he brought to Tuscaloosa when he first arrived.

9. Kalen DeBoer (2025–Present)

Kalen DeBoer is the current head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, having taken over the program in 2025. DeBoer, known for his offensive prowess and ability to develop quarterbacks, was hired to maintain the tradition of excellence at Alabama while adapting the program to the evolving landscape of college football.

Before arriving at Alabama, DeBoer had built a strong reputation as an offensive coordinator at several successful programs. His offensive-minded approach is expected to complement Alabama’s established defensive prowess, and he brings a fresh perspective to the Crimson Tide program. DeBoer faces the challenge of continuing Alabama’s legacy of success while navigating the pressures and expectations that come with leading one of college football’s most prestigious programs.