Kalen DeBoer shoots down Penn State rumors: ‘There’s never been any interest’
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Ahead of the SEC Championship Game, Kalen DeBoer was asked a question about a Big Ten program. There has been some chatter and speculation linking DeBoer to the Penn State job, but the Alabama coach said there’s nothing to the rumors.
DeBoer said he appreciated the chance to address the Penn State talk and put an end to the speculation. The rumor included DeBoer being unhappy at Alabama, which he said is not true.
“We’re extremely happy at Alabama,” DeBoer said of his family. “We’re extremely happy here. Love the challenge. Love the grind. Love this place. There’s never been any link. There’s never been any conversation. There’s never been any interest either way. So I’m glad we can put that to bed right now.”
"We are extremely happy at Alabama. … There's never been any link, any conversation, any interest either way. I'm glad we can put that to bed right now."
— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) December 4, 2025
Kalen DeBoer's response to being asked about the Penn State job. pic.twitter.com/uFi1vq1zqO
The second-year Alabama coach has a 19-6 record with the Crimson Tide, succeeding Nick Saban after the legendary coach’s retirement. The Tide missed the SEC Championship Game and College Football Playoff last year, but will play for a conference title on Saturday and are currently projected to make the CFP as the No. 9 team in the selection committee rankings.
DeBoer, 51, held jobs at Fresno State (2020-21) and Washington (2022-23) before taking the Alabama job. Penn State fired James Franklin on Oct. 12 and the full-time head coaching position remains open.
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
