Kalen DeBoer, Jalen Milroe share hug; Watch coach address team about culture, goals

Kalen DeBoer is embracing the chance to replace Nick Saban at Alabama as the head coach.

While he was introduced to the media Saturday, the former Washington coach had a chance to address his Crimson Tide and talked about building a culture one day at a time.”

DeBoer just took Washington to the national title game and says he “really wanted” the Alabama job, but he added it “wasn’t easy” to leave the Huskies. Still, because of that, he understands what the Tide players have been through over the last few days.

“I appreciate you guys sticking it out,” he told the players.

After his remarks to the team, which were met with applause, DeBoer and Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe embraced.

RELATED: Emotional DeBoer has message for Huskies, says Alabama ‘maybe only place’ he would’ve left for

Here is what DeBoer told his Crimson Tide:

“We will build a culture one day at a time. One day at a time to where, man, you can’t help but love the journey.

“When you walk in the doors of this facility, you know the guy next to you, the guy on the other side of the ball, you know the coaching staff, they are fighting the same fight you are. It’s hard enough the way it is to be the best, and that’s our goal. That’s what we are shooting for. To be the best. …

“I appreciate you guys sticking it out.”

The 49-year-old from South Dakota was hired on Friday after leading Washington to the national championship game in his second season and earning Associated Press coach of the year honors. He’s 104-12 as a head coach, winning three NAIA national titles at alma mater Sioux Falls and quickly having success at Fresno State and Washington. He was 25-3 with the Huskies.

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.