What Alabama football fans are currently most anxious about is the lack of changes in Kalen DeBoer's coaching staff. There are multiple player roster holes and weaknesses that need to be addressed via the Portal. But many Alabama Crimson Tide fans are sure that unless certain assistant coaches are fired, no influx of player talent will provide a sufficient remedy.
Top of the list for firings in the opinions of Crimson Tide fans is offensive line coach Chris Kapilovic. The Crimson Tide's offensive line was among the biggest of Alabama disappointments in the 2025 season. Some Alabama fans blame Kapilovic and Offensive Coordinator Ryan Grubb. DeBoer and Grubb have succeeded together on other teams. DeBoer cutting Grubb loose now would be a surprise. Somebody must pay a price for the Tide's anemic rushing offense, and logically, the first person is Kapilovic.
Some Alabama fans would also like to see a new running backs assistant. Robert Gillespie was a welcome carryover from Nick Saban's staff. His position group also underperformed this season, though most of their weakness could be attributable to the offensive line's inconsistent ability to get a push.
The other assistant out of favor with Crimson Tide fans in special teams coach, Jay Nunez. Until DeBoer added special teams coordinator to Nunez's role, the Pittsburgh State graduate had never been a Power Four field coach. In the 2025 season, the Crimson Tide's special teams ranking was No. 73 in Brian Fremeau's model and No. 14 among SEC teams.
In addition, not all Alabama fans support defensive line coach Freddie Roach. For those fans, Roach does not get a pass by being a former Crimson Tide player. The grumblings about Roach's unit falling short of potential predate Kalen DeBoer.
There have been some rumors that Ryan Grubb did not have the complete support of some offensive players. It is difficult to believe that, to the extent the rumors are based on fact, they are a reason for Alabama's offensive weaknesses. Kalen DeBoer has a reputation for being a player's coach. If he is primarily that, then other coaches must fill ass-kicker roles. Before the season began, Grubb was recognized for being DeBoer's longtime offensive partner, but also DeBoer's "sheriff ... who can ruffle feathers and lay down the law when needed." Even badass coaches, like Nick Saban, want some sheriffs on their staff.
When for Alabama Football Staff Changes?
Alabama football insiders believe that Kalen DeBoer will be in no hurry. If he makes changes they will come after portal crunch time subsides. Alabama fans will be, as always, impatient.