The influence of Nick Saban’s coaching at the University of Alabama has reached unparalleled financial heights, with former Crimson Tide players collectively earning over $2 billion in NFL compensation since 2007.
💰 The Numbers Speak Volumes
A comprehensive SI report reveals that a total of 165 former Alabama players coached by Saban have received at least some NFL compensation, amounting to $2.26 billion through the end of the 2023–24 season .This staggering figure spans everything from short-term league check-ins to multi-million-dollar megadeals.
📊 Career Earnings Tiers
- 17 players have earned more than $50 million over their NFL careers.
- 59 former Tide players have exceeded $10 million.
- 126 have made at least $1 million
These tiers underscore the lasting and deep financial impact of Saban’s program on individual careers.
🌟 Recent Big Contracts
The 2024 offseason alone saw massive deals for former Crimson Tide stars:
- Jalen Hurts signed a 5-year, $255 million contract with the Eagles.
- Wide receivers like Jaylen Waddle ($84.75M), Calvin Ridley ($92M), DeVonta Smith ($75M), and Jerry Jeudy ($52.5M) inked lucrative extensions.
- Defensive stars Patrick Surtain II ($96M) and Christian Barmore ($84M) also secured big deals
These alone added hundreds of millions to the total earnings pool.
🏆 Saban’s Coaching = NFL Payday
Former Tide cornerback Patrick Surtain II is one notable example. After a rookie extension, his earnings have climbed from roughly $36M to over $130M with a recent $96M extension
Meanwhile, SI’s most recent figures show:
- 71 active former players currently earn a combined $466 million in 2025 cap dollars.
- Alabama outranks other elite programs like Ohio State and LSU in this key metric
🧬 Legacy Beyond College
Since taking over in 2007, Saban has not only produced national champions but also shaped a powerful NFL pipeline. Players like Julio Jones ($149M), Amari Cooper ($137M), Tua Tagovailoa ($73M and rising), and Derrick Henry ($67M) exemplify the program’s elite output
📝 Final Take
Nick Saban’s impact extends far beyond trophies and titles—he’s engineered one of the most consistent NFL talent machines in history. With over $2.26 billion in player earnings, Alabama stands as a premier engine of pro-level success.
As Saban transitions to new roles, his coaching tree and financial legacy continue multiplying. The crimson pipeline is not just flowing—it’s overflowing.