Nick Saban Takes a Friendly Shot at Stephen A. Smith for His Return to ESPN

Nick Saban has got jokes, and pulled no punches for Stephen A. Smith in his return to “First Take.”

Smith made his return to the popular ESPN show on Monday after being absent for most of the summer due to rehabbing from shoulder surgery.

Some big names in the sporting world recorded video messages welcoming Smith back to the show, including Alabama football head coach Nick Saban. Saban kept his message friendly, but wasn’t afraid to sneak a few jabs in as well.

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“Stephen A, we’re all happy to have you back on ‘First Take’ after your surgery, and we’re pleased you’re doing well,” Saban said. “But there’s some question about how much time do you need off. I had my hip replaced and I was back to work the next day. I realize they don’t make them like they used to, and some people will do anything to get a day off. But good luck and God bless, my friend.”

Saban was referring to his hip replacement surgery he had in the offseason before the 2019-2020 football season.

Smith and co-host Molly Qerim enjoyed the video, and Smith had some high praise for the Crimson Tide’s head coach.

“He’s the one person in the world I believe, would have hip surgery and be back the next day,” Smith said. “The greatest coach in the history of college football as far as I’m concerned. I love that man, it’s good to see him."