Kevin Steele, who took over as Alabama's defensive coordinator in the 2023 season, is retiring. per report From ESPN's Chris Lowe. This was his third stent under coach Nick Saban.

Steele was hired before the season to replace Pete Golding, who held the same position as Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss. Goulding has held the role of defensive coordinator since 2018.

Steele served as Saban's first defensive coordinator at Alabama in 2007, headed to Clemson in 2009 and returned for a second stint in 2013. He also served as Auburn's defensive coordinator for five seasons from 2016-2020.

Defensive stats reflected similar numbers to Goulding's defense in yards allowed and points per game, but the defense was credited with improving under Steele.

RELATED: 17 years ago today: Saban named head coach at Alabama

Last season, Alabama suffered a loss due to its defense not being able to make stops, but this season it turned around and the defense showed its best performance of the season until the final four minutes of the Rose Bowl.

Holding Georgia to under 80 rushing yards, holding LSU's prolific offense to under 30 points, holding Tennessee scoreless in the second half, and most recently proving just how strong the defense was under Steele. There are countless.

Steele's retirement marks Alabama's third staff departure this offseason, with Nick Saban replacing outside linebackers coach and special teams coordinator Coleman Hutzler (currently Mississippi State defensive coordinator). Wide receiver coach Hormone Wiggins (who also serves as co-offensive coordinator) will join the team. Wide receivers coach at Texas A&M).

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