Nick Saban addresses 2022 roster, difference NFL Draft made

Seven Alabama players left the program this offseason in favor of the 2022 NFL Draft, meaning there is once again going to be a decent amount of turnover in Tuscaloosa. This is nothing new for head coach Nick Saban, who is attempting to replace his top players from a year ago on an annual basis.

Speaking with one of his former quarterbacks on the “Always College Football with Greg McElroy” podcast, Saban had the opportunity to address his 2022 roster. He talked about why the NFL Draft affected the plans originally had, saying there will be “a few more challenges” heading into the season.

Saban also said with every player who leaves the program, there’s an opportunity for somebody new to step up and make a name for themselves. Something a few players on the roster will be wanting to do this season.

“Every team is different,” Saban said. “We should have had nine starters back on offense and nine on defense. We got six guys that go out for the draft so now we got five back on offense, seven back on defense. It seems like your roster always changes a little bit more in this day and age. You always have a few more challenges and that’s okay. We love the challenges but it also creates opportunities for other players.”

Some big names are not returning, with wide receivers John Metchie and Jameson Williams being two of the biggest. Left tackle Evan Neal was a staple on the offensive line for Saban as well. Three defensive players got drafted, including star linebacker Christian Harris. A lot of talent is now at the professional level.

As the head coach stated, there will now be the challenge of bringing the new talent into the starting lineup and seeing similar results. Saban has been able to accomplish that feat for over a decade but each cycle presents a different kind of challenge.

Keeping star players such as Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Bryce Young and edge rusher Will Anderson will undoubtedly help the transition go a lot smoother. Saban has used the transfer portal to his advantage as well, bringing in some of the best available threats to drastically improve his roster — and with an immediate impact as well.

New players, mainly on the offensive end, will have to step up if Alabama wants to find themselves back in the College Football Playoff.