Saban says Alabama hasn't hired Durkin 'in any capacity'

Alabama head coach Nick Saban refuted a report that stated former Maryland head coach DJ Durkin has been helping the team in a consultant-like role.

"DJ Durkin is spending a few days with our staff in Tuscaloosa from a professional development standpoint. He has not been hired in any capacity at The University of Alabama. He is simply observing our operation as many other coaches have done through the years," Saban said in a statement obtained by Pete Thamel of Yahoo! Sports on Friday.

Durkin was fired by Maryland in October after the university investigated the circumstances leading to the death of offensive lineman Jordan McNair.

Alabama, the defending national champion, is preparing for its upcoming CFP semifinal game against Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl on Dec. 29.