Ryan Grubb Reunites with Kalen DeBoer as Offensive Coordinator at Alabama
Ryan Grubb’s return to the college football spotlight marks a new chapter in both his career and in the development of Alabama’s powerful offensive identity. In a highly anticipated move, Grubb, who recently departed from the Seattle Seahawks, has joined Alabama’s coaching staff as the offensive coordinator, reuniting with head coach Kalen DeBoer. This partnership between Grubb and DeBoer is not new; it is the continuation of a coaching alliance that has spanned across multiple institutions, bringing notable success at every stop.
A Storied Coaching Partnership
Ryan Grubb and Kalen DeBoer first crossed paths at the University of Sioux Falls, a small but successful program in the NAIA. While working together, Grubb’s leadership on the offensive line helped transform an offense that was already on an upward trajectory. Grubb’s expertise as an offensive line coach and his ability to develop a balanced and dynamic attack caught DeBoer’s eye, setting the stage for the duo to make waves in the coaching world.
In 2017, when DeBoer took over at Fresno State, Grubb followed suit as the offensive coordinator. Together, they revitalized a Bulldogs offense that had struggled in recent years, leading to a dramatic turnaround. Their approach, which emphasized a balanced attack with a focus on efficient passing and explosive run plays, quickly became one of the most respected in the nation.
At Fresno State, Grubb helped guide quarterback Marcus McMaryion and running back Jordan Mims to incredible seasons, with the offense becoming one of the most feared in the Mountain West Conference. Their combined success at Fresno State turned a previously underperforming program into a legitimate contender, with a conference championship appearance and numerous bowl victories on the resume.
Rise to Prominence at Washington
After their success at Fresno State, Grubb and DeBoer moved to the University of Washington in 2022, where DeBoer took the helm as head coach. Grubb was hired as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, and their impact was immediate. Under their leadership, Washington’s offense was revitalized and became one of the top units in college football.
The 2022 season was a breakthrough year for Washington, as quarterback Michael Penix Jr. had one of the most impressive seasons of his career under Grubb’s guidance. Penix threw for over 4,600 yards and 31 touchdowns, leading the Huskies to a remarkable 11-2 record and a New Year’s Six bowl appearance. The dynamic passing attack they installed at Washington allowed the team to go toe-to-toe with some of the most formidable defenses in the country.
Washington’s offense in 2022 ranked among the top 10 in the country, which further cemented Grubb’s reputation as one of the brightest offensive minds in the sport. His ability to develop quarterbacks and create explosive, fast-paced offenses made him a hot commodity in the coaching world.
The Seattle Seahawks and the NFL Transition
After his success at Washington, Ryan Grubb’s name was prominently featured as one of the top rising offensive minds in college football. This led to an opportunity he could not ignore: a move to the NFL. In February 2024, Grubb was hired as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. The move marked his first foray into the professional ranks, and expectations were high given his success at Washington.
However, his time with the Seahawks was short-lived. While Grubb’s offensive philosophy, which emphasized a pass-heavy attack, initially seemed like a good fit for quarterback Geno Smith and the Seahawks’ playmakers, there were differences in vision that ultimately led to a parting of ways. The Seahawks’ offensive performance was inconsistent in 2024, and after a midseason evaluation, the team decided to move in a different direction, ultimately parting ways with Grubb in January 2025.
Return to College Football: Alabama’s Gain
With Grubb’s NFL tenure cut short, a return to college football seemed inevitable, and his reunion with Kalen DeBoer at Alabama came at the perfect time. DeBoer had established himself as one of the most respected head coaches in the country, leading a powerhouse program in the SEC. Alabama, known for its dominant defense and high-level recruiting, was in search of an offensive mastermind who could elevate their attack.
Grubb’s appointment as Alabama’s offensive coordinator is expected to have a significant impact. Known for his ability to blend power football with high-octane passing schemes, Grubb will bring a refreshing offensive identity to Alabama. His philosophy, which revolves around maximizing the talent at hand and creating a dynamic attack, is expected to complement the Alabama roster’s mix of speed, power, and athleticism.
With the Crimson Tide roster stocked with elite talent on both sides of the ball, Grubb will have the opportunity to work with some of the best athletes in the country, including a potentially top-tier quarterback and running back group. Alabama’s offensive line, traditionally a strength for the program, will also benefit from Grubb’s experience in developing one of the best lines in college football.
What Grubb Brings to Alabama’s Offense
Ryan Grubb’s offensive system is known for its versatility. While he emphasizes a balanced approach, his true strength lies in his ability to build an offense that adapts to the strengths of his players. Whether it’s a powerful running back, a mobile quarterback, or a deep corps of wide receivers, Grubb finds ways to scheme around his talent and exploit mismatches.
At Alabama, Grubb will have a wealth of talent to work with. The Crimson Tide is known for producing top-tier quarterbacks and running backs, and under Grubb’s watch, Alabama’s offense could reach new heights. His offensive philosophy is also known for its focus on tempo, something that could be a game-changer for Alabama, a program that has traditionally relied on a more methodical, ground-and-pound style of play.
What will also benefit Alabama’s offense under Grubb is his track record of developing quarterbacks. Whether it’s turning a standout college quarterback into an NFL draft prospect or simply getting the most out of a signal-caller in his system, Grubb’s expertise with quarterbacks will be crucial. The next Alabama quarterback will be expected to excel under Grubb’s tutelage, with a much more dynamic passing game likely to emerge in the years to come.
Alabama’s Path to Continued Dominance
Ryan Grubb’s hiring signals Alabama’s commitment to adapting and modernizing its offense while maintaining its identity as one of the nation’s top football programs. While the Crimson Tide has dominated college football with its defense and balanced attack, the offensive side of the ball has seen its share of struggles in recent years. With the addition of Grubb, Alabama is positioning itself to compete not just for SEC titles, but for national championships, with an offense that can keep up with the best of them.
Grubb’s ability to elevate Washington’s offense and lead it to national relevance is a clear indicator that he is ready to take Alabama’s offense to the next level. Under his leadership, Alabama’s offense could become one of the most potent and high-scoring units in college football, providing a much-needed complement to the team’s always-stout defense.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the expectations for Ryan Grubb are clear. His arrival at Alabama marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the Crimson Tide’s offense. With the experience and success he’s had at the college level, including his dynamic work with Kalen DeBoer, Grubb will bring both innovation and stability to Alabama’s offensive unit.
For Grubb, the reunion with Kalen DeBoer represents both a return to familiar territory and a fresh challenge in one of college football’s most competitive environments. For Alabama, it means the possibility of revamping its offense to match the intensity and innovation that has already made the program so successful under Nick Saban’s leadership. With Grubb steering the ship, Alabama fans can expect an offensive overhaul that keeps them at the top of college football for years to come.