Josh Jacobs expresses his appreciation for the mentorship of Nick Saban early in his career. The 26-year-old Green Bay Packers running back shared with several journalists that the esteemed NFL coach, now 73, was instrumental in preparing him—and many other freshmen at the University of Alabama—for a professional journey, both on and off the field.

Understanding the crucial role of media in sports, Saban mandated that every freshman attend a speech and interpersonal communication class, which Jacobs credits for his ability to engage with the press. “Obviously, you all have a job to do as well,” he remarked to the reporters, surrounded by microphones. “So I try to make things straightforward for everyone.”

Jacobs highlighted a significant lesson from Saban, which was to maintain professionalism regardless of victories or defeats. Saban led Alabama from 2007 to 2023, securing six championships (2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, and 2020). He retired a year ago on January 10, 2024, and currently works as an analyst for ESPN’s College GameDay.

Before his tenure in Tuscaloosa, where he coached Jacobs from 2016 to 2018, Saban had coaching stints at Kent State, Syracuse, West Virginia, Ohio State, Navy, and Michigan State. In 1988, he transitioned from college football to the NFL, coaching the Houston Oilers and the Cleveland Browns.

Saban returned to collegiate coaching at Michigan State in 1995, moved to LSU in 2000, and after a brief period with the Miami Dolphins from 2005 to 2006, he embarked on his long-standing role at Alabama. After his time at Alabama, Jacobs joined the Las Vegas Raiders in 2019 and then signed with the Packers last year.