Terrion Arnold jokes about Nick Saban staying involved with Alabama football: 'He might die drawing up a play'

Even in retirement, football is a part of Nick Saban‘s daily life. Whether he is doing something for ESPN College GameDay or assisting Kalen DeBoer in Tuscaloosa, Saban seemingly cannot stay away. To those close to him, this is not the most surprising revelation.

Former Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold was one of them, being a player Saban was extremely close with before deciding to step away. He even joked about football being present when Saban’s time does come.

“I know Coach Saban, he might die literally drawing up a football play or watching a game,” Arnold said via Chris McCulley of ABC 33/40. “Staying away from it, it’s hard but I know he would never step away fully. Just as far as the added pressure and stress as far as being a head coach. Especially with Coach Saban, being one of the hardest workers ever.

“First person in the building, last person out of the building. Just to see him retire and transition into retirement, it’s been a great thing because I know the pressure and added stress isn’t there. But he’s one of those guys, he’s got to keep it on him.”

Arnold is right about there being zero pressure on Saban moving forward. As much as the former head coach may want Alabama to win, none of the expectations are on his shoulders anymore. DeBoer now has the responsibility of making sure the Crimson Tide gets back to winning ways following a 9-3 regular season and omission from the College Football Playoff. It’s a big topic of conversation heading into the 2025 season, one Saban will certainly be a part of in the coming SEC Media Days.

Thankfully for other SEC fans, Saban will sit at a desk and discuss their teams as well. All of what comes with being a retired head coach, now working for ESPN. However, Arnold knows there was never a doubt — Saban was going to find his way to incorporate football post-retirement. Some within the Alabama program and a lot from the outside as a media member.

Maybe Saban will head up to Detroit at some point to see Arnold play. The two grew quite a bond during the 2023 season, one that included Saban’s wife, Miss Terry. Arnold was also a fan favorite in Tuscaloosa for his on-field heroics and off-field personality. Seeing a reunion between them all would produce a special moment.