In a move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, UAB has parted ways with head coach Trent Dilfer, replacing him with Alex Mortensen, son of the late, legendary NFL reporter Chris Mortensen. But here’s where it gets controversial: Dilfer, a former first-round NFL draft pick and Super Bowl-winning quarterback, leaves UAB with a disappointing 9-21 record after just one full season. Was this a fair decision, or did Dilfer deserve more time to turn the program around? Let’s dive in.
Dilfer, who was selected sixth overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1994, had a storied NFL career spanning 14 seasons and five teams, most notably leading the Baltimore Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2000. After retiring, he transitioned to coaching, spending four years at the high school level before UAB hired him for the 2023 season. Despite his NFL pedigree, Dilfer’s tenure at UAB struggled to gain traction, culminating in a 2-4 record this year. And this is the part most people miss: While his record is underwhelming, the program’s challenges may run deeper than just coaching.
Stepping into the interim role is Alex Mortensen, a 39-year-old coach with a background in college football as a player at Samford and Arkansas. Mortensen, who joined UAB’s staff in 2023, has been coaching since 2012, bringing a fresh perspective to the team. His appointment raises questions: Can he stabilize the program, or is UAB in need of a more seasoned leader? Is Mortensen’s connection to his father’s legacy an asset or an unnecessary distraction?
The transition comes at a critical time for UAB, which has seen a growing trend of former NFL players taking on college coaching roles. With Dilfer’s departure, the debate intensifies: Are ex-NFL stars the right fit for college football, or do they lack the experience to navigate the unique challenges of the collegiate game? What do you think? Is UAB making the right call, or is this a missed opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation that’s sure to spark differing opinions.
