Nick Saban discusses how quarterback signee Julian Sayin can thrive at Alabama

Headlining the 2024 Alabama football signing class is five-star quarterback Julian Sayin out of Carlsbad, California. And discussing the now-signee on Wednesday at his press conference, Crimson Tide head coach Nick Saban dished on the incoming quarterback.

Saban lauded Sayin’s ability at the position and was prompted to highlight some versatile aspects to his game. But most of all, Saban sees a quarterback who is ready to come to Alabama and dive head first into getting better.

“And I think, as all players — I tell all players ‘You’ve really gotta focus on your development, that’s the most important thing. What are you going to become?’ And and I think he’s got the right mindset to do that,” Saban said.

Sayin, who is the No. 5 recruit in the 2024 class, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, not only brings the right mindset but varied experience. His high school program, while running primarily a spread out offense, did feature under-center looks.

Having some versatility and experiencing the process of installing and learning new things will be key for any player in new settings, Saban said.

“Well, we don’t get under center a whole bunch. But it’s something that we want to be able to do and we want the quarterback to be comfortable doing. So, anybody that’s done that in high school or grew up doing it, it’s a natural thing for them. So, I think it’s good. I think it’s a good think that they’re not just one dimensional as a player and then they’re uncomfortable doing new things that you have to do. Because I’m sure, where ever anybody goes, there’s going to be new things at every position that they have to learn to do and grow comfortable learning. But that’s one thing that’s pretty huge for a quarterback,” Saban said.

And while Saban didn’t go in depth on his scout of Sayin, it’s pretty clear he and the Alabama staff have a high opinion of the quarterback’s physical abilities and track record. With some time on task in Tuscaloosa, Sayin could be next in line among the top-shelf quarterbacks at Alabama.

“Julian is an outstanding player. Ball comes out of his hand really nice. He’s accurate, he’s smart. He’s had a great high school career. Been one of the best players, most productive players in the country on a very consistent basis and we like him a lot,” Saban said.