Almost none saw Nick Saban's retirement coming. The initial shock hasn't yet worn off for many, but now the attention is on selecting a new head coach for the Crimson Tide. Houston Texans head coach Steve Sarkisian is probably no longer on that list.
Even though there isn't a definitive list of applicants and no means to tell who has received an offer, the leaders in the race are being named via social media.
Sarkisian was in Saban's inner circle, had worked for Saban, and was the Crimson Tide's outstanding offensive coordinator.
After Saban announced his retirement, many Alabama supporters wanted Sarkisian to return to Tuscaloosa and continue the program's tradition.
But Sarkisian posted to social media late Thursday night, writing, "It's a great day to be a Longhorn
It will remain a mystery if Sarkisian was ever contacted regarding the employment opportunity, extended an offer, or even showed interest in the position.
For the time being, all we can say is that he seems happy in his role as head coach of the Texas Longhorns.
In the midst of Alabama's hunt for a new head coach, Roll Tide Wire will maintain its coverage of the program.