Alabama Coach Nick Saban Tests Positive for Covid-19

Alabama Crimson Tide coach Nick Saban has tested positive for the coronavirus, it was announced by the school on Wednesday.

It’s the second outbreak to affect college football following a number of positive tests from the Florida Gators. Reportedly, 19 Florida players tested positive for the coronavirus. As a result, its game against the LSU Tigers has been postponed.

Nick Saban (68) released a statement following his positive diagnosis. Athletic director Greg Byrne also tested positive. 

Offensive Coordinator Steve Sarkissian will assume interim coaching duties ahead of their game against Georgia on Saturday.

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“I found out earlier this afternoon that I had tested positive for COVID-19,” Nick Saban said. 

“I immediately left work and isolated at home. At this time, I do not have any symptoms relative to COVID, and I have taken another PCR test to confirm my diagnosis. I informed our team of my positive test at 2 p.m. today on a Zoom call and let them know offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will oversee preparations at the complex while I work from home.”

Given his age, Saban is classified as high-risk. It remains to be seen when he will be able to return to work.

“Early this afternoon, we received notification that coach Saban and Greg Byrne tested positive for COVID-19. Both immediately left the facility and went to their homes to self-isolate after receiving that information,” Dr. Jimmy Robinson and Alabama athletic trainer Jeff Allen said in the statement. 

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“At this point in time, the positive tests are limited to those two individuals. All individuals who are considered high risk contacts have been notified and will follow quarantine guidelines. We will follow the SEC’s Return to Activity and Medical Guidance Task Force Protocol for testing asymptomatic positives.”