Nick Saban John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Following in the footsteps of a legendary head coach like Nick Saban is obviously not easy, and new Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Kalen DeBoer appreciates how Saban is helping make it as easy as possible for him.

During a recent interview with Jim Rome, Kalen DeBoer had a pretty clear message for Nick Saban about just how much he appreciates how respectful he has been as the program transitions its head coaches.

“He’s amazing. He’s been so respectful in every way,” DeBoer told Rome.

DeBoer said that Saban has been around the program to offer his support and guidance as he takes over as the new head coach of the legendary program, but he has not been too overbearing as he tries to give DeBoer space to make the program his own.

“He’s just been so respectful, trying to allow me to make it mine,” DeBoer added on Saban. “He’s just down the road. Of course, I’ve been over there a couple times, talked with him on the phone as well. He’s just a great resource.”

We’ll have to see how DeBoer performs during his first season as the team’s head coach, but it’s clear that he is glad to have the support of Saban.

[Jim Rome]