Who will be the next Alabama head coach? Here's what we know
Nick Saban is a legend in Alabama. He has won more college football national championships than any coach in the modern era.
Now, he's retiring.
Who can fill those shoes?
>> FULL STATEMENT: Nick Saban on retiring
Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne to give insight to Crimson Tide fans about the future of the position.
"As with any coaching search, our goal is to be thorough, but expedient. Our ideal candidate will be strong in recruiting and relationship building, player development, excel in Xs and Os and have the overall ability to lead this historic program.
"There will be plenty of rumors out there during this process. Next time I talk publicly will be to announce our new coach. If you don't hear it from me, don't believe it. Roll Tide!"
Byrne continued to discuss the importance of Saban in the state and what he has done for athletes across several generations.
>> WATCH: Fans, students leave mementos by Nick Saban statue at Bryant-Denny Stadium
"Simply put, Nick Saban is one of the greatest coaches of all time, in any sport, and The University of Alabama is fortunate to have had him leading our football program for the past 17 seasons. Throughout his career as a head coach, his teams have won seven national championships, 11 conference championships and 312 games, and he's developed an NCAA-record 49 NFL first-round draft picks and, most importantly, hundreds of college graduates.
"He's a consummate coach, mentor and leader, and his impact is felt far beyond the football field. Coach Saban and Ms. Terry have touched countless lives in our community and the state of Alabama with the work they've done through the Nick's Kids Foundation.
"While his time as our coach may have come to an end, his legacy will live on forever. What an honor it has been for us to have a front-row seat to one of the best to ever do it. A truly remarkable career for Coach Sabam. Roll Tide!"
>> FULL LIST: Crimson Tide community reacts to Nick Saban's retirement