Alabama assistant coaches and coordinators are rarely made available to the beat reporters. Away from the UA football facilities, however, things are different.

TMZ Sports recently got in a few quick questions with Crimson Tide offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian at the Los Angeles airport. He says he’s happy to be back at Alabama.

“I’m excited man,” Sarkisian said. “It’s a great opportunity!”

When asked about a return to the NFL one day, Sarkisian did not rule it out. He spent the 2017 and ’18 seasons as offensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons.

“You never know,” Sarkisian responded. “Just focus on the job you have now. I’m fired up to have it.”

Sarkisian is also already on message when it comes to talking about Alabama’s goals for 2019. He didn’t take the bait when the reporter asked about the Crimson Tide “reclaiming the crown.”

“Just take it one day at a time, man,” Sarkisian said. “You know the process at Alabama.”