University of Alabama head coach Nick Saban announced Friday the hiring of Billy Napier as the Tide’s wide receivers coach. Napier takes over for Mike Groh, who was hired by the Chicago Bears.

“We are glad to have Billy back on our staff,” Saban said. “He did an outstanding job when he was with us in 2011 and he was the first call we made when this position opened. He is a sharp young coach and he’ll be a great addition working with the wide receivers. We also feel that he will be a tremendous asset to our staff in the recruiting process.”

Napier returns to the Crimson Tide staff after spending the last season as Colorado State’s assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach under head coach Jim McElwain, Alabama’s offensive coordinator from 2008-11. During his year at CSU, Napier helped improve the offense as the team ranked 17th in the nation in red zone scoring. Under Napier’s guidance, the team also cut sacks allowed down by nearly four per game over the second half of the season, while the running game was improved by 65 yards per game over the second half of 2012. Prior to his season with the Rams, Napier served Alabama as an offensive analyst for the 2011 national championship season.

“I have a great appreciation for the University of Alabama and the program Coach Saban runs, especially after spending the 2011 season in Tuscaloosa,” Napier said. “From a professional development standpoint, it was the best year in my coaching career. When you’ve been here and seen it firsthand, you know that you want to try and get back to Alabama if that opportunity ever presents itself. I am excited to be back and appreciate Coach Saban offering me the position. We had a great experience a year ago and we have a lot of great friends here. It is a special place because of the history and tradition, but also because of the people you work with and the fans and supporters of the program.”

Leading in today’s Crimson White:

Freshman Hakansson breaks school record in men’s weight throw

Local six-piece band’s album to include graphic novel

Senior Alexis Paine breaks 3rd UA record in women’s pole vault