Mark Ingram II Back in Tuscaloosa: Joins Alabama Football Coaching Staff as Director of Player Development
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — May 28, 2025
Mark Ingram II, the University of Alabama’s first Heisman Trophy winner and a pivotal figure in the Crimson Tide’s rise under head coach Nick Saban, is officially back in Tuscaloosa — this time on the sidelines. The university announced Wednesday that Ingram has joined the Alabama football coaching staff as the new Director of Player Development.
The move reunites Ingram with the program where he cemented his legacy as one of college football’s all-time greats. During his time at Alabama (2008–2010), Ingram was a dynamic and bruising running back who became the face of the program’s national resurgence. In 2009, he rushed for 1,658 yards and 17 touchdowns, leading the Crimson Tide to a 14-0 season and a BCS National Championship — the school’s first since 1992. That same year, he captured the Heisman Trophy, making history as Alabama’s first player to receive the prestigious award.
Now, Ingram returns to Tuscaloosa to help guide and mentor a new generation of Crimson Tide athletes. As Director of Player Development, he will focus on supporting student-athletes both on and off the field, offering insight from his college and NFL experiences, and helping players navigate the pressures and opportunities of major college football.
“It’s a dream come true to be back at the place that gave me so much,” Ingram said in a statement released by the university. “The University of Alabama changed my life, and now I get to give back to the program and to these young men coming through it. Coach Saban always said it’s about the process, and I’m excited to be part of that process again — just in a new way.”
Ingram’s return comes at a pivotal time for Alabama football, which is entering a new chapter following the retirement of Nick Saban after the 2024 season. New head coach Kalen DeBoer, who took over the reins in January, emphasized the importance of bringing in staff members who not only understand Alabama’s culture but have lived it.
“Mark is a proven leader, not just on the field but in life,” said Coach DeBoer. “He knows what it takes to succeed at the highest level and has a deep understanding of what this program means. He’s going to be an incredible asset for our players.”
After leaving Alabama, Ingram was selected in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the New Orleans Saints. Over a 12-year NFL career, he was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and became the Saints’ all-time leading rusher. Known for his work ethic, team-first attitude, and charisma, Ingram was also a respected voice in the locker room and an advocate for player development.
His transition into coaching and mentorship has been anticipated for years, as Ingram has frequently spoken about his passion for giving back to the sport and guiding younger athletes.
Fans, alumni, and former teammates welcomed the news with excitement and pride, seeing Ingram’s return as a symbolic bridge between Alabama’s storied past and its promising future.
With Ingram back in the fold, the Crimson Tide continue to lean on their rich legacy — while building the next chapter in their championship journey.
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