Can't...": Alabama Legend Julio Jones Breaks Down in Tears With Emotional Nick Saban Admission

Julio Jones broke down in tears on ESPN while discussing what Nick Saban meant to him, tying his gratitude to his mother’s sacrifices and the opportunity Alabama provided after Jones grew up in Foley. Jones said Saban directed him to become “the man I am,” and recalled how the coach believed in building players, not protecting them. He described the recruitment as focused on Jones’ potential: Saban reportedly stopped watching after only a few plays and said, “We gotta get him,” adding that Jones was the type of kid around whom Alabama could build its program. Jones chose Alabama over Oklahoma, Florida, Florida State, and Texas Tech, signing in February 2008. He started as a true freshman vs. Clemson and finished that season with 58 catches for 924 yards as Alabama went 12-2 and reached the Sugar Bowl.