Washington players appear to still harbor resentment towards Kalen Deboer for his departure.
Michael Penix Jr. is captured on video dismissively waving off ex-Washington coach Kalen Deboer while posing for a picture during Reese’s Senior Bowl practices.
It appears that there is no love lost between Washington football players and ex-head coach Kalen Deboer. A video shows former Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. slightly pushing back Deboer as he posed for a picture before his Reese’s Senior Bowl practice on X.
Michael Penix shook Deboer off with the backwards karate chop 😂😂
The look on KDB’s face ☠️ #PurpleReign #RollTide pic.twitter.com/AdSnFOyOLu— Purp Smoke (@PurpSmoke8) February 1, 2024
DeBoer departed from Washington in early January to fill the shoes of the newly retired Nick Saban at Alabama. Despite Michael Penix Jr. not being part of the Huskies in the upcoming season, it appears he still harbors some resentment towards his former coach for leaving after just two seasons.
In a video capturing the moment, Penix Jr. is seen taking a picture, possibly with another coach, and when DeBoer attempts to join for the photo op, Penix Jr. makes it clear he is not welcome. Although the new Alabama head coach laughs off the encounter, the tension is palpable even from a distance.
Reportedly, DeBoer was negotiating an extension with Washington, which would have made him one of the highest-paid college football coaches. However, he opted to move on and assume the role left by the legendary Nick Saban at Alabama.
Considering the circumstances, it’s likely that DeBoer might not receive a warm welcome if the Crimson Tide ever faces the Huskies in the future. It also seems doubtful that Penix Jr. would extend any draft day invites to DeBoer anytime soon. Given the situation, it’s understandable, isn’t it?
