Those anxious to see Nick Saban in his new job won’t have to wait long.
ESPN announced its 2024 NFL Draft coverage across ESPN, ABC and more, and the former Alabama coach made the cut.
ESPN and ABC will provide fans two broadcast options over the first two nights, Thursday, April. 25 (7 p.m./8 p.m. ET) and Friday, April 26 (6 p.m./7 p.m. ET).
Saban will make his debut as an analyst on the ABC broadcast after it was announced he would be joining ESPN in February 2024. Saban will join host Rece Davis and panelists Kirk Herbstreit, Desmond Howard, Field Yates, Laura Rutledge and Pete Thamel on ABC.
Mel Kiper Jr., officially in his fifth decade as an NFL Draft staple, returns to the ESPN broadcast.
There is also a third option with The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular.
ESPN’s presentation will focus on areas of need for each team, the draftee’s football resume – with highlights and analysis on his playing style, technique and physical attributes – and how he will fit in with the team that drafted him.
Meanwhile, ABC will provide player analysis with a deeper emphasis on storytelling, providing viewers insight into the draftee’s background and journey to the NFL.
On day three of the Draft, Saturday, Apr. 27 (11 a.m./noon ET), ESPN’s presentation will be simulcast on ABC.
The Pat McAfee Show Draft Spectacular (Thursday, 7 p.m./8 p.m. ET). The show will utilize a wide range of personalities and analysts to breakdown picks while also emphasizing the draft experience from a fan perspective.
Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.