The University of Alabama released a statement from head coach Nick Saban on Friday night clarifying that former Maryland head coach D.J. Durkin worked with UA coaches on an observational basis during the week but had not been employed by the school.
“D.J. Durkin is spending a few days with our staff in Tuscaloosa from a professional development standpoint,” Saban said in the release. “He has not been hired in any capacity at The University of Alabama. He is simply observing our operation as many other coaches have done through the years.”
Durkin was suspended in August and dismissed on Oct. 31 after a lengthy investigation into his Maryland program promoted by the death of UM player Jordan McNair found “a culture of fear” during Durkin’s tenure. He was ultimately replaced as Maryland head coach by Alabama offensive coordinator Mike Locksley.
