Famous coach caught on hot mic panning Dallas Cowboys’ first-round draft pick
Legendary college football coach Nick Saban didn’t realize his microphone was hot during ABC’s coverage of the NFL draft Thursday, and admitted surprise at the Dallas Cowboys’ selection of Malachi Lawrence at No. 23 in the first round.
Saban could be heard, but not seen, saying, “Wow, this is a reach,” as the Cowboys selected the Central Florida defensive end.
The Wide Left posted a consensus draft big board that used 134 analysts, and it had Lawrence ranked as the 48th-best prospect, well below his selection at No. 23.
Once back visibly on the air, here’s what Saban had to say about the Lawrence:
“Well, you know, I hate to use that word, but actually this guy was one of my sleepers for tomorrow,” Saban said, “He is a good player.”
The Cowboys will reunite Lawrence with Demeitre Brim, an assistant defensive line coach who came over from UCF this offseason.
Lawrence will be introduced Friday afternoon at a press conference with fellow first-round pick Caleb Downs.
This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 10:58 PM.
