The way Nick Saban framed it on Thursday, there’s a chance his three suspended Crimson Tide players may never again suit up for Alabama.

If you missed the news on Christmas Eve, sophomore offensive guard — and current starter — Deonte Brown, redshirt junior offensive lineman Elliot Baker and sophomore tight end Kedrick James are all suspended for the Orange Bowl. None of the players made the trip with their team to Miami.

During his latest media availability, Saban announced those suspensions came as a result of NCAA violations.

“These are NCAA violations, with those things come certain – consequences. Those players knew the situation. They made poor choices and decisions,” Saban said. “We will support the players in every way that we can. They will not be available to play for the rest of this season and maybe beyond.”

Based on that response, those players time as members of the Alabama football program may be over.