Would Alabama consider Penn State’s James Franklin as Nick Saban’s successor?

Nick Saban shocked the sports world on Wednesday when it was reported that Alabama’s legendary head coach will retire. Saban, after winning seven national championships and establishing himself as one of the greatest coaches of all-time, is calling it a career.

The Saban news sent ripples through the college football landscape. There was an outpouring of respect for what Saban has accomplished over the last 17 years at Alabama, forging one of the sport’s greatest dynasties. But naturally, many focused on who might succeed him.

James Franklin popped up as a potential Saban replacement. Penn State’s coach was named on a “quick projected target list” compiled by ESPN insider Pete Thamel.

The other coaches included on that list? Clemson’s Dabo Swinney, Oregon’s Dan Lanning, Washington’s Kalen DeBoer, Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman and Florida State’s Mike Norvell.

Lanning is expected to be Alabama’s top target, according to The Action Network’s Brett McMurphy. And that would be make sense given the former Georgia defensive coordinator’s brief but successful stint as Oregon’s head coach.

Still, it’s not surprising to see Franklin be recognized as a candidate for a Power Five opening. It seems to happen every offseason that Franklin, who is represented by super agent Jimmy Sexton, is discussed as a candidate for a blue-blood program.

Franklin just wrapped up his 10th season at Penn State. He has compiled a 88-39 record, reaching five New Year’s Six bowls and winning three of them. Franklin’s 4-16 record against Ohio State and Michigan has also been a point of contention during his tenure; fans have been understandably frustrated by Penn State’s lack of success against the big boys.

Franklin and Penn State agreed to a new 10-year contract in November 2021. The deal runs through the 2031 season and is worth $7.5 million per year, plus incentives.

In the end, it’s not likely that Alabama will pursue Franklin to replace Saban. But only time will tell who the legend’s successor in Tuscaloosa will be.