Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer has quickly emerged as the leading candidate to replace Sherrone Moore after Michigan abruptly fired its head coach for cause on Wednesday, shaking a coaching carousel that had seemingly settled.
Multiple industry insiders immediately named DeBoer as the Wolverines’ preferred target, including NBC Sports’ Nicole Auerbach, On3’s Pete Nakos, and USA TODAY Sports' Blake Toppmeyer.
All of them have reported the second-year Crimson Tide coach will be a factor in the search. However, the timing is challenging. With the early signing period underway and the transfer portal set to reopen Jan. 2, this could become worse than a holiday airport shuffle.
DeBoer was rumored to be tied to the Penn State opening earlier this cycle, but nothing ultimately came from it all. But this is a much different situation.
Alabama signed DeBoer to an eight-year, $87 million contract last year to replace Nick Saban, a deal that would require a significant financial commitment from Michigan to pry him away. But with the backing of the world's richest man, Larry Ellison, the Wolverines have significant back to essentially make any deal happen.
Also, Alabama’s ongoing College Football Playoff run further complicates matters. DeBoer is not expected to consider outside opportunities until the Crimson Tide conclude their season, which could last into January.
For a program seeking to solidify the position after a stunning dismissal, DeBoer’s rapid rise makes him a compellin and somewhat ambitious target.
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