“Unfinished Business,” Belief, and Trust Define Alabama Football Veterans Putting off NFL

When the 2024 college football season kicks off, a handful of Alabama’s most talented veterans will be suiting up in crimson once again, with one goal in mind: unfinished business. After having tasted the sweetness of success during their collegiate careers and coming so close to ultimate glory, these players have made the decision to forgo entering the NFL Draft for another season with the Alabama Crimson Tide. Their decision to return for one last year, with the hope of capturing a national championship, embodies much more than just a pursuit of individual success. It is a statement of belief, trust, and a deep commitment to both their team and the Alabama football program as a whole.

For these veterans, the decision to delay entering the professional ranks is not just about securing a higher draft position, though that is certainly a factor; it is about redemption, about finishing what they started, and about representing something larger than themselves. This narrative of unfinished business, belief, and trust runs deep within the culture of Alabama football, a program that has experienced sustained success under legendary head coach Nick Saban. These veterans know the grind and the commitment it takes to be part of such an elite program, but they also understand the rewards that come from persevering in the pursuit of excellence.

The Culture of Alabama Football

Alabama football, under the leadership of Nick Saban, is defined by a culture of excellence, discipline, and accountability. These values are not just slogans—they are instilled in every player from the moment they step onto campus. The Crimson Tide are not just a football team; they are a program built on a rich tradition of winning, championships, and the belief that every player can reach their fullest potential.

For the Alabama veterans returning for their final seasons, this culture is a major factor in their decision to put off the NFL and continue their college careers. While many of them have already established themselves as elite players capable of succeeding at the next level, they understand that there is still something left to accomplish in Tuscaloosa. The pull of the program’s legacy, the opportunity to contribute to its continued dominance, and the desire to finish what they started have kept them focused on one more season in college football.

The idea of “unfinished business” has become a rallying cry for these players. They want to leave Alabama not just with personal accolades but with the satisfaction of having helped lead the team to another national championship, something that has eluded them in recent seasons. While Alabama has been incredibly successful in the Nick Saban era, winning multiple national championships, the goal remains the same: reclaiming the throne as college football’s undisputed champion.

The Decision to Return: A Commitment to Legacy and Growth

When a player decides to return for another season in college football, it is a decision that requires careful consideration. The potential to enter the NFL and begin a professional career is always enticing, but for Alabama’s veterans, there are deeper reasons for staying. The decision is rooted in a commitment to their legacy at Alabama, a commitment to growing as individuals, and a belief that their time in college football is far from over.

Take, for example, the case of senior wide receiver Jermaine Burton, one of the standouts of the 2023 season. After a season in which he showed flashes of brilliance, including some clutch performances in big games, Burton had the chance to enter the NFL Draft. However, he chose to return to Alabama for another year. For Burton, the decision was about more than just the potential for a better draft position; it was about developing further as a player, contributing to his teammates’ success, and seeking that elusive national championship that has been just out of reach.

Burton has the talent to be an impact player at the next level, but by returning to Alabama, he’s committing to refining his game in the hopes of elevating the team to its highest potential. His decision embodies the broader theme of unfinished business that defines Alabama’s veterans. They have experienced the highs and lows of college football, but they believe they can do more, accomplish more, and ultimately win more for Alabama.

Belief in the Process and Trust in Saban’s Vision

At the heart of the decision for many Alabama veterans to delay their entry into the NFL is a profound belief in the process and a deep trust in Nick Saban’s ability to guide them toward greatness. Saban has built a dynasty in Tuscaloosa, and his consistent success has not only earned him the respect of players and coaches but has fostered a level of trust that goes beyond the football field.

For these veterans, the trust they place in Saban is invaluable. They know that under his leadership, they will continue to improve, refine their skills, and be put in the best possible position to succeed both on the field and in the NFL. Saban’s reputation for developing players and getting the most out of his athletes is a major draw for players considering whether to return for their senior season or declare for the draft.

Defensive stars like Will Anderson Jr. and Bryce Young have repeatedly spoken about how Saban’s leadership has been a defining factor in their development as players and leaders. Anderson, widely regarded as one of the best edge rushers in college football, has made it clear that his decision to return for another year was motivated by the belief that he can continue to grow and help his team win a national title. His relationship with Saban is one of mutual respect and trust, and Anderson knows that under Saban’s guidance, he can reach even higher levels of performance.

It is this belief in the coaching staff, the program, and the process that has propelled many of Alabama’s top veterans to delay the NFL. They trust that the hard work they put in at Alabama will pay off, not only in the form of championships but also in preparing them for the professional ranks when the time is right.

A Focus on Team Success and Championship Glory

When it comes down to it, the decision for Alabama’s veterans to stay one more season is driven by a focus on team success. While the allure of the NFL is strong, these players understand that their legacy at Alabama will be defined not by individual accolades but by team accomplishments. A national championship is the ultimate goal for any Alabama player, and for these veterans, the desire to capture that elusive title has motivated their decision to put off the NFL Draft.

This mindset is particularly evident in players like Brian Branch, Alabama’s standout defensive back, who had a breakout season in 2023 and could have easily made the jump to the professional ranks. Branch’s decision to return for another year was about more than just individual glory; it was about bringing Alabama back to the top of college football. Branch is one of the most well-rounded defensive players in the country, and his return to Alabama is a clear indication that his sights are set on winning a national title.

For these players, it is about legacy—leaving Alabama in a better place than they found it. The Crimson Tide have a storied history, and these veterans understand the responsibility they carry as part of that tradition. They are determined to contribute to the program’s continued success, and they are willing to sacrifice the financial rewards of the NFL to achieve that goal. Whether it’s a player like Jahmyr Gibbs, who could have entered the draft after a sensational season in 2023, or DeMarcco Hellams, who is back for his final season as a key piece in the Tide’s defense, the shared vision of bringing Alabama back to the top of college football is at the forefront of their decisions.

Leadership and Mentorship: The Next Generation of Tide Stars

Another significant factor in the decision for many of Alabama’s veterans to stay is the opportunity to mentor the next generation of Tide players. Nick Saban’s program is known for developing young talent, and the veterans who return for another season are often looked to as leaders and role models for the younger players.

For players like Emil Ekiyor Jr., an experienced offensive lineman who has been through the highs and lows of Alabama football, returning for another year means a chance to pass on the knowledge and lessons he’s learned to a new crop of recruits. Ekiyor, who has been a cornerstone of the offensive line for several seasons, understands the importance of leadership and the responsibility that comes with being a veteran on a team like Alabama. His experience will be invaluable in helping Alabama’s younger players adjust to the intensity of college football and the expectations that come with being a part of such a prestigious program.

The leadership and mentorship provided by these veterans will play a key role in Alabama’s success in 2024. Their commitment to the team and their willingness to help guide the younger players will ensure that the Crimson Tide remain a championship contender, both in terms of talent and team cohesion.