Nick Saban Says Team Had ‘Really Good’ Offseason [VIDEO]

Nick Saban held his first press conference of spring practice and seemed to be optimistic about the team's progress heading into 2016. 

"We've had a really good offseason program," Saban said. "We really liked the players' effort. I saw a lot of improvement in players leading up to today."

The new year brings a lot of new changes on and off the field. Eight early enrollees are getting acclimated to the program and what's expected. Three new coaches were added to the staff while three other coaches - Burton Burns (special teams), Mario Cristobal (tackles, tight ends), and Bobby Williams (special assistant) - have new responsibilities.

"We're excited about how all of those people can contribute at new positions," Saban said.

Saban pointed out a number of players that he didn't expect to participate at all this spring as they recover from injuries. That list includes:

• Jonathan Allen (shoulder surgery)
• Cam Robinson (shoulder surgery)
• Eddie Jackson (leg)
• Raheem Falkins (leg)
• Dakota Ball (foot)
• Shawn Jennings (knee)

The team will take this week off for The University of Alabama's Spring Break and will return to the practice field on Monday.