Oregon State head coach Dan Lanning, who was the top candidate to become Alabama's next head coach since Nick Saban's shocking retirement announcement, announced this afternoon that he will be returning to Oregon State.

With Lanning's name gone from the list, a few options remain at the top of the list.

As of this posting, the most likely candidates appear to be Mike Norvell of Florida State University and Karen DeBoer of Washington State University. news report and insider analysis.

RELATED: Top 5: Who Will Replace Nick Saban?

Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin's name hasn't been mentioned much, but former Alabama offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian of Texas also remains a candidate.

Jimmy Sexton was seen walking into Mal Moore's athletic facility this afternoon.

Sexton not only represents Nick Saban, but also DeBoer, Norvell, Sarkisian, Kiffin, and Kirby Smart.

Video of Nick Saban's agent Jimmy Sexton entering the Mal Moore Complex earlier today @abc3340 pic.twitter.com/pJEzKTcXmQ

— Chris McCulley (@ChrisMcCulleyTV) January 11, 2024

The search for the Alabama Crimson Tide's next head coach will continue to move forward rapidly.

Michael Brauner is a senior sports analyst and contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP