Nick Saban revealed his five favorite Alabama football players to coach, highlighting their work ethic, leadership, and talent on the field.
Nick Saban’s influence on college football is unparalleled. As the head coach of the University of Alabama football program, he has won multiple national championships, produced countless NFL prospects, and built a dynasty that is recognized as one of the most successful in college football history. His coaching philosophy, which revolves around discipline, development, and attention to detail, has shaped the lives and careers of thousands of athletes. His impact goes beyond wins and losses — Saban is known for cultivating leadership, fostering personal growth, and molding players into professionals both on and off the field.
Over the years, Saban has coached some of the best football players to ever play the game, including stars like Derrick Henry, Julio Jones, Tua Tagovailoa, and many others. But even within such an illustrious group, there are players that stand out to Saban as favorites, not just because of their talent, but also due to their attitude, leadership qualities, and work ethic. These players represent the core principles that Saban values in his athletes, and in a recent interview, Saban revealed his five favorite players to coach at Alabama. Each of these individuals exemplified the qualities that Saban holds in the highest regard, and their legacies continue to inspire both current players and future recruits at Alabama.
The Criteria for Being a Favorite Player of Nick Saban
Before diving into the specific players, it’s important to understand the criteria that would make someone one of Saban’s favorite players to coach. Nick Saban is known for being a demanding coach, with a reputation for perfectionism and a commitment to high standards. However, he has a deep respect for players who embrace his philosophy of discipline, hard work, and mental toughness. These athletes go above and beyond in their commitment to the game, showing not just physical talent but also the intangible qualities that make them leaders and role models for their teammates.
For Saban, the following traits are key in determining which players earn a special place in his coaching history:
- Work Ethic: Saban places a premium on players who are willing to put in the extra effort. It’s not just about physical talent; it’s about the effort and attitude a player brings to every practice, workout, and game.
- Leadership: Saban values players who lead by example and are willing to motivate and inspire their teammates. The ability to hold oneself and others accountable is something that Saban looks for in his favorite players.
- Mental Toughness: Saban’s coaching philosophy revolves around discipline and the ability to perform under pressure. Players who exhibit resilience and an unshakeable focus during difficult moments stand out to him.
- Team-Oriented Mindset: Saban is known for his “team-first” mentality, and players who are willing to sacrifice individual glory for the benefit of the team are among his favorites. The ability to put the team’s success ahead of personal accolades is a core value in Saban’s system.
- Talent and Execution: Finally, Saban’s favorite players are exceptional athletes who execute his game plans flawlessly. While mental and leadership qualities are paramount, no one can succeed at Alabama without talent and the ability to perform at the highest level.
With these factors in mind, let’s look at five players who, according to Saban, stand out as his favorite to coach.
1. Derrick Henry – A Titan on and off the Field
Derrick Henry, the Heisman Trophy-winning running back, is often considered one of the best players to ever don an Alabama uniform. A towering figure at 6’3” and 247 pounds, Henry combined rare size with incredible speed and agility, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. But what truly set him apart in Saban’s eyes wasn’t just his physical ability. It was his work ethic, leadership, and commitment to his craft.
Saban has often spoken about Henry’s determination to improve and his relentless pursuit of greatness. While Henry’s natural talent was obvious from day one, his growth as a player under Saban’s tutelage was remarkable. Saban saw in Henry a player who never rested on his laurels, constantly working to refine his technique and become better every day. Whether it was improving his pass protection, developing his footwork, or enhancing his conditioning, Henry was always looking for ways to be the best.
“Derrick was an incredible player, but what impressed me most was his ability to keep improving,” Saban said in interviews. “He was always focused, always striving for more. His work ethic was contagious, and he set the standard for his teammates.”
Henry’s leadership was equally impressive. Despite his quiet demeanor off the field, he led by example, inspiring his teammates through his effort and consistency. As the cornerstone of Alabama’s offense, Henry played a key role in the team’s success, leading the Crimson Tide to a national championship in 2015 and winning the Heisman in 2015 after an unforgettable 2,219-yard season.
It’s no surprise that Saban holds Henry in such high regard. The running back not only put up historic numbers but also embodied the core principles that Saban values most in his players: hard work, leadership, and continuous improvement.
2. Julio Jones – The Ultimate Competitor
Julio Jones, a wide receiver known for his explosive athleticism and unmatched skill set, is another of Saban’s all-time favorite players. Jones, who went on to become a first-round pick in the NFL, was a key part of Alabama’s offense during the early years of Saban’s tenure. His time in Tuscaloosa was marked by remarkable individual performances and undeniable team success, including winning a national championship in 2009.
What made Jones a favorite of Saban’s wasn’t just his extraordinary talent — though his physical abilities were jaw-dropping. It was his approach to competition and his relentless drive to improve. Saban has often talked about how Jones’s competitive spirit was unmatched. No matter the situation, Jones was always determined to be the best on the field, pushing his teammates to be better in the process.
“Julio was the kind of guy who never took a play off,” Saban said. “He was always 100 percent, and he set a standard for what it means to be great. He never settled for anything less than his best, and that’s what made him so special.”
Jones’s leadership was also crucial to Alabama’s success during his time there. His ability to raise the level of play around him — through his example and his energy — was invaluable to Saban. As a result, Jones left a lasting legacy at Alabama, both as an individual player and as a teammate.
3. Tua Tagovailoa – The Calm Leader Who Led Alabama Back to Glory
Tua Tagovailoa, the former Alabama quarterback, is one of the most beloved figures in Alabama football history. Tagovailoa’s tenure in Tuscaloosa was highlighted by his stunning rise to stardom, culminating in a national championship victory as a freshman in 2017. His famous game-winning touchdown pass to DeVonta Smith in the 2018 National Championship Game remains one of the most iconic moments in college football.
Saban has often spoken about Tagovailoa’s leadership and his ability to stay calm under pressure. Despite being thrust into the starting role as a freshman and following in the footsteps of Alabama’s legendary quarterbacks, Tagovailoa displayed incredible poise and maturity. His work ethic was second to none, and his ability to stay focused in high-pressure moments made him one of Saban’s favorite players to coach.
“Tua had this calmness about him,” Saban said. “He didn’t get rattled. He was a great leader and a great player, but what I loved most was his ability to handle the big moments. He wasn’t just a talented quarterback; he was someone you could trust in the most important moments.”
Tagovailoa’s ability to lead Alabama to a national championship and his subsequent success in the NFL is a testament to the foundation he built during his time at Alabama, and Saban’s belief in his leadership and composure played a huge part in that.
4. Minkah Fitzpatrick – The Ultimate Defensive Back
Minkah Fitzpatrick is one of the best defensive players to ever wear an Alabama uniform, and his versatility, intelligence, and playmaking ability made him a favorite of Nick Saban. Fitzpatrick, a two-time All-American and a key member of Alabama’s national championship defense in 2015, was known for his ability to excel at multiple positions in the secondary, from cornerback to safety and nickelback.
Saban has spoken highly of Fitzpatrick’s football IQ, noting how the young defensive back always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. His ability to make game-changing plays — whether it was an interception, a big tackle, or a forced fumble — was a hallmark of his time at Alabama.
“Minkah had an unbelievable football mind,” Saban said. “He understood the game like few players I’ve coached. He had the ability to change the game, whether it was making a big play on defense or leading the charge as a communicator on the field.”
Fitzpatrick’s leadership and versatility were invaluable to Alabama’s defense, and his consistency made him a key part of the team’s success during his tenure.
5. Ryan Kelly – The Unsung Leader of the Offensive Line
Ryan Kelly, a former center for Alabama, is another player who holds a special place in Saban’s heart. While offensive linemen don’t often receive the same level of recognition as skill players, Kelly’s leadership and dominance on the field made him one of Saban’s favorite players. Kelly was the anchor of one of the most dominant offensive lines in college football, helping pave the way for Heisman-winning running backs like Derrick Henry and securing a national championship in 2015.
“Ryan Kelly was the heart of our offensive line,” Saban said. “He had the leadership, toughness, and mentality that we wanted in our players. He was a key part of our success, not just because of his skill but because of his ability to lead and set an example for everyone around him.”
Kelly’s commitment to team success and his ability to execute the fundamentals of the position with precision made him a favorite of Saban’s.
