Amidst swirling rumors connecting Alabama's head coach Kalen DeBoer to the still-open Penn State job, DeBoer has firmly shut down any speculation about a potential move. Speaking to the media on Thursday, December 4, 2025, ahead of Alabama's SEC Championship clash with Georgia, DeBoer stated unequivocally that he is "extremely happy" at Alabama.
"We are extremely happy here," DeBoer said when asked about the rumors and suggestions that his family wasn't happy in Alabama. "Love the challenge, love the grind, love this place. There's never been any link, there's never been any conversation, there's never been any interest either way. I'm glad we can put that to bed right now".
DeBoer's strong denial comes as Penn State continues its search for a head coach to succeed James Franklin, who was reportedly let go in October. Despite the Nittany Lions' program presenting a "tremendous opportunity," DeBoer's departure from Alabama was always considered unrealistic. Taking over from the legendary Nick Saban in 2024, DeBoer has the Crimson Tide positioned for a potential College Football Playoff berth.
DeBoer's first season saw the team ranked fifth in the preseason AP and Coaches Poll. He secured his first win as Alabama's head coach against Western Kentucky, with the team achieving a 9-4 record in 2024, including a 3-1 record against top-25 teams. These victories included a notable 41-34 win over then-No. 2 Georgia, who would eventually become SEC Champion, alongside dominant performances such as a 34-0 shutout of then-No. 21 Missouri and a 42-13 win at then-No. 14 LSU.
Before arriving at Alabama, DeBoer served as head coach at the University of Washington from 2022-23, where he was named Pac-12 Coach of the Year in both seasons. During his time there, he led the Huskies to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in 2023.
With a 15-3 record against top-25 teams in his five combined seasons at Fresno State, Washington, and Alabama, DeBoer's 15 wins against top-25 teams since 2021 rank as the second-most among active head coaches during that time. He also boasts a 26-8 record in one-score contests across his 10 years as a head coach.
DeBoer's coaching philosophy emphasizes class, integrity, and academic success, fostering an environment where players can thrive. As DeBoer prepares the Crimson Tide for their upcoming game against Georgia, his focus remains firmly on the SEC Championship and the pursuit of a College Football Playoff spot.
