Paul Finebaum raises red flags on Kalen DeBoer’s leadership at Alabama

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Paul Finebaum raises red flags on Kalen DeBoer’s leadership at Alabama originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum believes Alabama has reached a crossroads and questions whether head coach Kalen DeBoer can quickly lift the program after a rough stretch both on and off the field.

Finebaum labeled the situation a “tipping point” following a discouraging weekend in the transfer portal, where Alabama lost ground on multiple high profile targets to one SEC foe.

Former Auburn wide receiver Cam Coleman chose Texas, while running back Hollywood Smothers flipped his commitment to the Longhorns. Both were particularly painful misses for a roster in need of backfield help. It also gives Arch Manning and extra set of playmakers.

During an appearance with McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning, Finebaum said the losses highlight an unfamiliar reality for the Crimson Tide in a post-Nick Saban era. “It’s hard to accept that Alabama is being outmaneuvered and outspent,” Finebaum said. He added some recent moves “really crushed a lot of people” around the program.

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Alabama has lost steam in the transfer portal with a double-digit loss. The lack of movement raising questions about roster balance heading into the 2026 season. Finebaum also said Alabama’s most recent CFP quarterfinal loss to Indiana in the Rose Bowl was the worst defeat of the modern era for the program.

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“I think the real problem for Alabama is what can be done?” Finebaum said.

DeBoer must inspire a shaken fan base, which isn't easy to do. Whether he can do that remains uncertain but also might put him on a hot seat.