TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — Ryan Grubb has officially rejoined Kalen DeBoer’s coaching staff as the offensive coordinator at Alabama, a significant move following their successful collaboration at Washington, where they propelled the team to the College Football Playoff championship game.
The announcement came on Thursday, confirming Grubb’s return after serving as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach alongside DeBoer during their tenure at Washington in 2022 and 2023. DeBoer expressed his enthusiasm for Grubb’s addition, stating, “Ryan Grubb has been someone that I have trusted for a long time, and adding him to our staff only improves the quality of coaches we have here at Alabama. He is one of the best offensive minds in the country, and I can’t wait to see what he brings to our organization moving forward.”
Last season, the Washington team narrowly missed clinching a national title, finishing just one victory short under DeBoer’s leadership. Grubb played a crucial role in this achievement while working closely with star quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who was selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.
Following Washington’s defeat to Michigan, which resulted in a 34-13 loss in the CFP championship game, DeBoer transitioned to Alabama. Grubb intended to follow but was momentarily sidetracked when he was appointed as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. Unfortunately, after a disappointing 10-7 season, he was let go from that position. Now he returns to the collegiate level to reunite with DeBoer.
“I’m thankful to get an opportunity to work with Coach DeBoer once again and to be a part of an offensive staff that I am very familiar with,” Grubb remarked. He expressed unwavering confidence in the coaching team’s ability to position the players for success. “I know and trust that this group of coaches and players will work tirelessly to meet the standard that has been set here at Alabama, and I can’t wait to get out on the field with them,” he added.
Grubb and DeBoer’s professional relationship dates back to their time at Fresno State, where they worked together for several years. Grubb served in various roles, including run game coordinator and offensive line coach from 2017 to 2018, offensive coordinator and offensive line coach in 2019, and then as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach from 2019 to 2021. Meanwhile, DeBoer held positions as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach before taking the head coach role at Fresno State from 2020 to 2021.
Additionally, Grubb’s previous coaching experience includes a stint as Eastern Michigan’s offensive line coach from 2014 to 2016, further showcasing his extensive background in developing effective offensive strategies. As he steps into his new role at Alabama, hopes are high for what he will bring to the program.
