Jay Valai explains decision to leave Alabama for Oklahoma

New Oklahoma co-defensive coordinator and pass defense assistant Jay Valai made a difficult decision this offseason before signing on with new head coach Brent Venables. The young, rising assistant spoke about his wild ride over the past 12 months with the Tulsa World.

During an interview, Valai broke down the many career developments he experienced over the past year and where it led him this offseason.

“That whole last year was a crazy year, to say the least,” Valai said. “But God opens door for you. Last year, in February, I wasn’t thinking Alabama. I was ready to be the corners coach for the Eagles. The G.O.A.T. (Nick Saban) called me the night of the Super Bowl and it became a life decision.”

While the decision to leave Alabama after earning the opportunity did not come easy for Jay Valai, the opportunity to work with Brent Venables provided an opportunity which he simply could not turn down.

“When (Venables) hit me up, I instantaneously told my wife,” Valai said. “I could work with the guy who has poured into me and who I would run through a wall for. It gave me something to think about.”

Ultimately the decision was made and he joined the Oklahoma Sooners staff this offseason, clearing the way for Alabama to hire former Auburn player Travaris Robinson.

Jay Valai joins Oklahoma

The Oklahoma Sooners announced the hire of Alabama cornerbacks coach Jay Valai as co-defensive coordinator and pass defense assistant who will work with cornerbacks and nickel backs after the 2021 season. The potential for the move was also reported by On3’s Matt Zenitz weeks earlier.

Prior to the formal announcement, Jay Valai sent a farewell message to the behind-the-scenes staff at Alabama, given them credit for their hard work and contribution to his success.

“It has truly been a blessing to be a part of Bama Nation!” Valai said in a statement. “Seeing a team respond to adversity, multiple injuries, personal and family issues with a no flinch/next man up mentality has truly been special to see.

“It’s amazing to see the work ethic of people who never get enough credit in building like Jeff Allen, Ellis Ponder, Mrs. Linda, Mrs. Glenda, Ballou and Dr. Rhea, JT, Mama Ashley, Brandy, Carrigan, Makenzie, the recruiting staff, Jonathan King, DD, Shap, Van, the ageless wonder Cedric Burns and their amazing staffs (plus many more)!

“Mrs. Terry and coach Saban aka the G.O.A.T. have been amazing to my family and me. As incredible as it was to talk scheme and strategy with him, people will never know how truly good of a man he is. This staff and Roll Tide Community has been amazing to be a part of!

“Truly blessed and as always much love!”