Report: Alabama to name Arizona's Greg Byrne AD, Battle to retire

A changing of the guard appears to be on the horizon in Tuscaloosa, as Alabama is reportedly set to name current Arizona athletic director Greg Byrne to the same position, according to Greg Hansen of the Arizona Daily Star.

Alabama will be Byrne's third stop in the position of athletic director, following six years at Arizona, and three previous years at Mississippi State. In regards to football specifically, both programs still employ head coaches hired by Byrne, those two being Rich Rodriguez at Arizona and Dan Mullen at Mississippi State.

Current Alabama AD Bill Battle, who is under contract until March, will retire from his current position "to assume a new role as Special Assistant to the President," the school announced.

"It's been a distinct privilege and honor serving as Director of Athletics these last four years," Battle said. " ... I am deeply grateful to each and every one of them for their extraordinary efforts and loyalty to the University."

Battle underwent treatment for multiple myeloma this past summer, taking an eight-week leave of absence before returning at the beginning of the Crimson Tide football season.

"I want everyone to know that my health was not a factor in this decision as, at this time, I am in full remission and I feel great," Battle assured in his statement.