In a testament to the enduring power of tradition, institutional loyalty, and the pursuit of a shared vision, Ryan Grubb, the highly regarded offensive coordinator for the Alabama Crimson Tide, has reportedly declined a lucrative $2 million offer from LSU to remain in Tuscaloosa. The decision, first reported on Friday, July 4, 2025, sends a clear message across the Southeastern Conference: Grubb is deeply committed to the Crimson Tide’s storied mission, its unparalleled legacy, and his loyalty to head coach Kalen DeBoer.
This move is particularly significant given the fierce rivalry between Alabama and LSU, two perennial SEC West powerhouses. For an offensive coordinator, a $2 million salary would place Grubb among the highest-paid assistants in all of college football. LSU, known for its willingness to invest heavily in top coaching talent, undoubtedly saw Grubb as a critical piece in their strategy to elevate their offensive scheme and challenge Alabama’s dominance. The fact that Grubb, who is currently earning $1 million annually at Alabama, chose to turn down double his salary speaks volumes about his priorities and belief in the future of the Crimson Tide program.
LSU’s offer was not merely about money; it was a clear signal of their intent. For an offensive coordinator, the opportunity to command a $2 million salary would likely come with significant autonomy and a prominent role in shaping a high-profile offense within the SEC. LSU’s program, under Head Coach Brian Kelly, has consistently been in contention, boasting elite talent and a passionate fanbase. The chance to build an offense with such resources, and to do so in a system that would allow him to be a leading voice, would be enticing for many.
Furthermore, coaching in the SEC means constant exposure and opportunities for advancement. A successful stint as LSU’s offensive coordinator could quickly put Grubb in contention for a head coaching job. The pressure at LSU is immense, but so are the rewards for success.
However, for Ryan Grubb, the intangible benefits of remaining at Alabama evidently outweighed the substantial financial gain. His decision highlights several key factors:
- The Crimson Tide Mission: Alabama’s football program isn’t just about winning games; it’s about adhering to a “Process” of relentless improvement, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence in every facet of the program. This mission, deeply embedded by former head coach Nick Saban and now continued by Kalen DeBoer, appears to resonate strongly with Grubb. He thrives in an environment where the standard is the absolute highest, and where there’s an unwavering commitment to player development and competitive dominance.
The University of Alabama’s broader mission includes advancing the intellectual and social condition of its community through creation, translation, and dissemination of knowledge. The athletic department’s mission, aligned with this, is about “the total support of the educational, athletic and personal development of our student-athletes.” Grubb’s alignment with this holistic approach, not just the football field, seems to be a significant factor.
- The Unparalleled Legacy: Alabama’s legacy is arguably the richest in college football. With 18 claimed national championships, a litany of All-Americans, and numerous NFL draft picks, the program offers a unique stage. For an offensive coordinator, being a part of this legacy means recruiting top-tier talent comes almost as a given. Players want to come to Alabama because of its history of success and its pipeline to the NFL. This allows Grubb to work with the very best athletes, implementing his schemes with elite capabilities. The challenge of maintaining and adding to such a storied history is a powerful motivator.
- Loyalty to Kalen DeBoer: This is perhaps the most significant factor. Grubb and Kalen DeBoer have a long-standing and highly successful partnership. Grubb has been DeBoer’s offensive coordinator at multiple stops, including Fresno State, Washington, and now Alabama. Their offensive philosophy is deeply intertwined, and they share a mutual trust and understanding that is rare in coaching.
When DeBoer took the Alabama job, bringing Grubb with him was a clear priority. Grubb even famously turned down an offer from Nick Saban to be Alabama’s OC before the 2023 season, choosing to stay with DeBoer and his Washington players, including Michael Penix Jr., Rome Odunze, and Jalen McMillan, because he felt a strong commitment to them and believed they were “poised for a really big season.” That season culminated in a College Football Playoff National Championship appearance. This prior loyalty, even to the legendary Saban, underscores the strength of his bond with DeBoer. Grubb understands DeBoer’s vision and how his offensive system fits within it. This deep collaboration allows for seamless execution and innovative play-calling, unhindered by the friction that can sometimes arise between a head coach and a new coordinator.
Ryan Grubb’s offensive system is known for its high-flying passing attack, its ability to create explosive plays, and its adaptability. At Washington, he engineered one of the nation’s most potent offenses, helping Michael Penix Jr. become a Heisman Trophy finalist. While his brief stint in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks in 2024 (where he was the offensive coordinator) had some struggles, particularly in the run game, his collegiate track record is undeniable.
At Alabama, Grubb is tasked with developing quarterback Jalen Milroe and maximizing the potential of a highly talented roster. In the 2024 season, under DeBoer and Grubb, Alabama’s passing game, while not overly voluminous in attempts, showed flashes of efficiency and explosiveness. Grubb himself noted that his time in the NFL reminded him of the importance of the run-pass mix for winning “big games and big moments.” He’s eager to apply those lessons to unlock Alabama’s full offensive potential.
His presence at Alabama is crucial for Kalen DeBoer’s first full recruiting cycle and for the immediate success of the team. Continuity in coaching, especially with a system as distinct as Grubb’s, is vital for player development and retention, particularly with the transfer portal being so active.
Grubb’s decision reverberates beyond Tuscaloosa. For LSU, it means they will continue their search for a high-caliber offensive coordinator. For other SEC programs, it signifies that Alabama’s staff, even post-Saban, is unified and committed, making them an even more formidable opponent in the relentless recruiting and on-field battles that define the conference.
In an era where coaching movement is constant and financial incentives often dictate decisions, Ryan Grubb’s choice to remain at Alabama, foregoing a significant pay raise from a direct rival, stands out. It’s a powerful statement about the unique appeal of the Crimson Tide’s mission, the weight of its legendary status, and the deep loyalty within its new coaching staff. For Alabama fans, it’s a reason to believe that the “Process” and the pursuit of championships will continue unabated.
