The Alabama Crimson Tide made a statement this week, and it was not subtle. By handing Kalen DeBoer a seven-year, $87.5 million contract extension , Alabama made it clear where it stands. This is their coach. This is their future. And perhaps most importantly, this is their leader in a post-Nick Saban world. On the surface, the move is about stability. That is what makes this decision so fascinating. DeBoer has gone 9-4 and 11-4 in his first two seasons, guiding Alabama back to the College Football Playoff after missing it in his debut year. That kind of trajectory, especially following the retirement of the most successful coach in modern college football, would be enough to earn patience at most programs. Alabama is not like most programs. The extension, which now runs through Jan. 31, 2033, and includes a $10 million buyout through early 2027, signals commitment. It shows that athletic director Greg Byrne is willing to ride with his hire, even without championship-level results to this point.…