After more than five decades on the sidelines and 17 seasons leading Alabama to championship glory, Nick Saban is finally opening up about life after football — and he admits, retirement hasn’t been easy.
In a candid conversation with SEC Network’s Paul Finebaum, the 72-year-old coaching legend got real about stepping away from the game he loves, adjusting to life off the field, and — in classic Saban fashion — taking orders from someone else: his wife, Ms. Terry Saban.
“I didn’t want to retire from working,” Saban said. “But Ms. Terry had a different idea. She handed me a list — she calls it the ’10 Commandments of Retirement’ — and let’s just say I’m learning to follow new rules now.”
🏈 From Whistles to Honey-Do Lists
Saban stepped down in January 2024 after a Hall of Fame career that included 7 national titles, 11 SEC championships, and the development of dozens of NFL stars. Though the decision shocked many, Saban says the choice was more about respecting the program’s long-term future than about personal burnout.
“I wasn’t tired of coaching. I was tired of what coaching was turning into,” he said, referencing the changing NIL and transfer portal environment. “But I do miss the structure — the schedule, the focus, the grind.”
Now, he’s traded in game film for grocery lists, yard work, and the occasional errand run.
“She’s got me organizing closets, fixing cabinet handles, and planning family vacations. I thought I ran a tight ship at Bama — turns out, Ms. Terry runs a tighter one at home.”
📜 Ms. Terry’s “10 Commandments of Retirement” (As Nick Tells It)
Saban jokingly shared a few of the now-viral rules Ms. Terry handed him post-retirement:
- Thou shalt not micromanage the TV remote.
- Thou shalt not critique dinner like it’s game film.
- Thou shalt remember birthdays without reminders.
- Thou shalt take grandkids to school at least once a week.
- Thou shalt not rearrange the spice rack. Again.
“I had a system! But apparently, the cinnamon didn’t belong next to the red pepper flakes,” Saban laughed.
🔙 Still In the Game — Just From a Different Angle
While officially retired from coaching, Saban has remained active as an analyst with ESPN, a mentor to younger coaches, and a quiet presence around Tuscaloosa. Sources say he’s still in regular contact with Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer, occasionally offering insight behind the scenes — though Saban is quick to say he’s not meddling.
“Coach DeBoer doesn’t need my help — but if he ever wants a second set of eyes, I’m here.”
💬 On Legacy, Faith, and Family
Saban also reflected on what matters most moving forward:
“I poured everything into football. Now, I’m pouring into faith, family, and doing things that matter off the field. I just hope I left things better than I found them.”
He closed the interview with one final grin:
“But I’ll tell you this — I’d rather prepare for LSU than hang another light fixture. That’s a fact.”
📝 Final Word
Nick Saban’s transition from legendary coach to full-time husband, grandpa, and “commandment-follower” may not come with national titles — but it’s a new chapter filled with humility, humor, and heart. And whether he’s drawing up plays or painting the guest room, the GOAT is still setting the standard.
