Confusion Surrounds $15 Million Coach’s Status in Florida’s Search
Florida’s hunt for its next head football coach has hit a snag, with mixed reports emerging about whether one high-profile candidate is still being considered.
Early reports indicated that Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall — one of the top names tied to the opening, along with favorite Lane Kiffin — had pulled out of the running. On3 initially claimed Sumrall had withdrawn and canceled a scheduled meeting with Florida. The outlet later walked back that report, removing the mention that he had taken himself out of contention.
What is clear is that Sumrall was supposed to interview with Florida but the meeting was canceled. The reason remains unclear. Meanwhile, Florida continues to wait for a final decision from Kiffin and is preparing backup options in case he stays at Ole Miss or chooses LSU.
On3’s Pete Nakos reported that Sumrall is not meeting with Florida as planned and noted that he is also a leading candidate for the coaching vacancy at Auburn, joining a list that includes D.J. Durkin, Eli Drinkwitz, and Clark Lea. Florida athletic director Scott Stricklin is continuing to vet candidates while Kiffin’s decision lingers.
Speculation around Sumrall’s future has intensified, with strong indications he may be leaning toward Auburn. Prediction markets give him roughly a 79% chance of landing the Tigers’ job. Sumrall, who signed an extension at Tulane in late 2024 through 2029, currently earns an estimated $3 million per year.
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