The former quarterback, who led the Crimson Tide to one of Saban’s six Alabama national championships, couldn’t
believe the news.
“Shocked really,” Coker told AL.com on Wednesday night. “Can’t believe it. Honestly, when I saw that, it was an emotional, weird landmark to reach. To play for coach Saban, he meant so much to me as a mentor, as a leader I have been able to follow for a certain period of time in my life.”
Coker wasn’t your typical Alabama player. You might say he was before his time. In January of 2014, Coker – a Mobile native – transferred to Alabama and was eligible to play. But he sat behind Blake Sims that year only to claim the starting job the following year and lead the Tide to 45-40 win over Clemson in the 2016 College Football Playoff national championship game.
“He does things the right way,” Coker said. “He’s always done that. When he tells you something, you are able to take it for what it is and know that is going to be a promise.
“It’s kind of a sad day. Wondering what direction Alabama is going to go in next, and hope that the legacy he built will be able to endure.”
Alabama students gathered late on Wednesday night at Saban’s statue only to chant who they didn’t want to see walking the sidelines in Tuscaloosa.
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