It’s not often that we devote a post to an FBS program adding someone to its support staff, but it’s also not often that said addition has the pedigree of this one.
As whispered in increasing speculation leading up to today, Alabama announced Thursday that Kevin Steele has been hired as UA’s Director of Player Personnel and don’t ask me if salary cap management will be part of his duties because that’s not even remotely funny.
When last seen, Steele was directing a Clemson defense that gave up 70 points in a humiliating loss to West Virginia in the 2012 Orange Bowl. Eight days after that loss Steele parted ways with that program, ultimately replaced as defensive coordinator by Brent Venables. Prior to his three years with the Tigers, he served as the Tide’s defensive coordinator during the first two years of Nick Saban‘s Tide tenure.
That familiarity played a significant role in today’s development.
“We are excited to have Kevin back on our staff,” said Saban. “He did an excellent job here previously, and he knows our program from a recruiting standpoint as well as anyone. His organizational skills and people skills make him a perfect fit for this role. As recruiting in college football has evolved through the years, this position is one of the most important on our staff.”
In addition to his time at Clemson and Alabama, he also served time on coaching staffs at Florida State (2003-06), Nebraska (1989-94), Tennessee (1987-88) and Oklahoma State (1984-86). He was the head coach at Baylor from 1999-2002.
Prior to that, he was the linebackers coach for the Carolina Panthers from 1995-98.
As far as his actual Alabama duties, the release lays them out as follows: “Steele’s main charge will be to direct the recruiting efforts for the Crimson Tide. He will also assist with camps, clinics and other football-related events. In addition, his responsibilities will include assisting with the administration and operation of the football program.”
After a year away from the game, Steele said he’s looking forward to returning to a program that’s won the past two BCS championships and three of the last four.
“I’m glad to be back at Alabama, and I’m looking forward to a new challenge in terms of this role,” said Steele. “I’ve worked at some great schools through the years, and nobody does it better than Coach Saban when it comes to running a program top to bottom. I’ve got family in the state and we love Tuscaloosa, so we are thrilled to be back. This is such a special place, and I look forward to doing my part to help continue the success of the football program.”
In addition to Steele, Saban also announced that Prichard Vigor (Ala.) High School head coach Kerry Stevenson has been hired as the program’s Director of Player Development. His duties will include the “off-the-field activities of Alabama’s football student-athletes... balancing the demands of academics, athletics and community outreach. He will also assist with personal development programs, including the peer intervention group.”