Jeff Allen, David Ballou indicate commitment to stay on Alabama staff

While no hires have been made official, the initial staff for Kalen DeBoer at Alabama is beginning to come together. On-field coaches have certainly taken the priority but off-field guys can be just as important. And everyone loves a good strength and conditioning program, especially in Tuscaloosa.

Well, there is no reason to worry about change there, with both Jeff Allen and David Ballou indicating their commitment to the Crimson Tide. Both took to social media, more or less announcing they would be staying on staff with DeBoer taking over the program.

Allen was replying to a fan, jokingly asking him to not “fight everyone” if he wound up leaving. He said “Roll Tide forever” and thanked DeBoer for giving him the opportunity to remain on staff moving forward.

“No need to come ‘fight everyone’ @nickbgentry! It’s all good! It’s Roll Tide forever with me! Beyond thankful to have the opportunity to serve Coach DeBoer and watch him lead this program! RTR! Go Bama!”

As for Ballou, his message was a bit simpler. He just posted a tweet saying “Roll Tide”, all but confirming he will continue to work with Allen, getting the Alabama players in shape this offseason and ready to rock for 2024 in DeBoer’s first go-round.

Roll tide!

— David Ballou (@UA_CoachBallou) January 16, 2024

There is a prior relationship with DeBoer and Ballou, going back to Indiana. When DeBoer was the offensive coordinator during the 2019 season, Ballou was on the strength and conditioning staff. It’s just the latest connection Alabama now has with the Hoosiers, with Kane Wommack expected to be hired as the defensive coordinator.

While a coaching change is not something the folks in Tuscaloosa are used to, having some crossover is never a bad thing. Especially after the recent success the program had under Nick Saban, winning the SEC this past season. Allen and Ballou have been a part of a national championship run as well.

DeBoer is hoping to keep the standard at the same level, even with some of the turnover. Having the same guys running the strength and conditioning program could be a great way to keep the players bought into the vision.

Allen and Ballou certainly have faith that DeBoer is a great hire as well, wanting to stay in Mal Moore facilities. Had they hit the open market, you would have to think plenty of head coaches would be out there looking to bring them in.