Kalen DeBoer is hoping to have Nick Saban around the program even though the longtime coach is now retired.

DeBoer spoke at his introductory press conference on Saturday. DeBoer was asked how much Saban will be allowed to be around the program. It sounds like the former Washington coach will let Saban come and go as he pleases.

“100 percent access to everything. I would be a fool if that wasn’t the case. I’m gonna ask him that he shows up and gives me at least one thing every day,” said DeBoer. “I’m sure he’s going to have 10. I’m gonna be good with that. But at least one thing he sees that we can get better at.”

The former Alabama coach was going to be around in Tuscaloosa regardless. Before DeBoer’s hire, Saban spoke of having an office at Bryant-Denny Stadium.

DeBoer spoke to Saban on Friday after news of the new role came out. Just by talking to Saban, DeBoer understood just how different Tuscaloosa is compared to other college towns around the country.

“We just talked for the first time yesterday, and man, I can just feel in his voice … this place is special.” said DeBoer.

The former Washington coach will have some big shoes to fill as Saban’s replacement. Saban finished his Alabama tenure with a 206-29 record. DeBoer doesn’t quite have the same reputation as Saban just yet but is off to a good start with a 104-12 coaching record from his time with Washington, Fresno State, and Sioux Falls.