Nick Saban Denied 2 Players $1.3 Million Combined in NIL Payments: Report

Playing for Alabama comes with a catch – NIL payments could be off the table. Nick Saban reportedly turned down a top recruit and a current player’s request for a combined $1 million in NIL funds, as reported by OutKick.

Saban spoke at the ALFCA (Alabama Football Coaches Association) Convention in Montgomery on Friday, informing coaches about two players who sought NIL payments and his choice to release them, according to reports.

Saban stated, as reported by Baker High School coach Steve Norman, “A representative approached me seeking $800,000 for a top-ranked high school corner to sign with us. I declined and advised them to look for another program, as I do not believe in paying NIL funds before the player has earned it.”

Coach Norman added that Saban feels the NCAA should implement more regulations on NIL payments as it has become overwhelming. Saban also reported losing 10 players, including a starter, to the transfer portal, with one player demanding $500,000 and law school expenses for their girlfriend. Saban stated, according to reports, that he showed that player the exit.

The identity of the players in question is unknown, as Saban did not specify names or schools. However, some speculate that he may have been referring to Javion Cohen, who transferred to Miami. Despite being critical of excessive NIL deals, Saban does support the principle of NIL compensation.

In August, Saban expressed his concerns, saying, “I have a couple of worries. Alumni involvement in recruitment and other matters through collectives is something we’ve always guarded against in college football. The level of competitiveness could be impacted, and it won’t be favorable for fans. The NFL offers the best example of competitive balance, with rules such as salary cap, challenging schedule, and draft order based on win-loss record, which promote exciting matchups on a national level.”