CONGRATULATIONS: Alabama Legendary Coach Nick Saban Announced by Detroit Lions Ownership as New Co-Owner of the Football Club
In a move that has taken the football world by surprise, legendary former Alabama head coach Nick Saban has officially joined the ownership group of the Detroit Lions. The announcement was made this morning during a press conference at Ford Field, where Lions owner Sheila Ford Hamp introduced Saban as the newest co-owner of the franchise—marking a historic chapter for both the Lions organization and one of college football’s most iconic figures.
Saban, who retired from coaching in early 2024 after a storied career at Alabama, is widely regarded as one of the greatest coaches in football history. Over the course of his 17-season tenure with the Crimson Tide, he led Alabama to six national championships, multiple SEC titles, and a staggering number of NFL-ready players. His legacy was cemented not just by wins, but by a culture of discipline, preparation, and excellence that shaped the modern era of college football.
Now, Saban is taking his talents off the sidelines and into the boardroom, stepping into a leadership role with the surging Detroit Lions—a team that has experienced a remarkable resurgence under head coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff. The Lions made the NFC Championship game in the 2024 season and are now seen as legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
“It’s an honor to be part of this organization at such an exciting time,” Saban said at the press conference. “Football has been my life’s work, and though I’ve stepped away from coaching, I’m not stepping away from the game. Being able to contribute from the ownership level, with a franchise that’s committed to winning the right way, is an opportunity I’m incredibly thankful for.”
Saban’s relationship with the Ford family reportedly dates back to his early coaching days in the NFL. He spent the 2005-2006 seasons as head coach of the Miami Dolphins, and prior to that, was defensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns under Bill Belichick. His deep knowledge of both college and pro football, combined with his ability to identify and develop talent, makes him a valuable asset to the Lions’ front office and long-term strategic planning.
Sheila Ford Hamp praised Saban’s football acumen and leadership, noting, “Nick Saban is more than a coach—he’s a visionary. His insight, competitiveness, and standard of excellence are a perfect fit for what we are building here in Detroit. We are thrilled to welcome him into our ownership group.”
While exact financial terms of the co-ownership stake were not disclosed, sources indicate that Saban’s involvement will extend beyond symbolic partnership. He will be actively engaged in organizational strategy, player development philosophies, and serve as an advisor to both football operations and business development initiatives.
The move signals a broader trend of influential sports figures transitioning into ownership roles—leveraging decades of experience into shaping the future of the sport from the executive level.
From Tuscaloosa to the Motor City, Nick Saban’s legacy continues to evolve. Congratulations, Coach. The next chapter has just begun.
