GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Nov. 26, 2023) – The University of Florida has named Tulane University head coach Jon Sumrall as its next football coach, signing him to a six-year contract worth $44.7 million. The announcement comes after a tumultuous coaching search following the mid-october firing of Billy Napier,who went 22-23 over four seasons in Gainesville. Napier had been nicknamed ”Sun Belt Billy” due to perceived struggles against Southeastern Conference competition.
The hiring of Sumrall, a defensive-minded coach, represents a shift for Athletic Director Scott Stricklin, who faced criticism from fans for failing to secure Ole Miss’s Lane Kiffin.Stricklin received a three-year contract extension in June from the Board of Trustees and was granted autonomy in the coaching search, conducting approximately 10 interviews without interference.
The pursuit of Kiffin involved reported booster involvement and strained relationships with his camp. Kiffin ultimately chose LSU after a public recruitment process. His family visited both Gainesville and baton Rouge, and he engaged in multiple meetings with administrators and fundraisers. The visit to Gainesville reportedly did not meet expectations. Florida also consulted with Heisman Trophy winners Steve Spurrier and Danny Wuerffel during its attempt to land Kiffin, but communication eventually stalled.
Sumrall arrives at Florida after a triumphant tenure at tulane, though the Green Wave’s statistics are modest, ranking 39th nationally in total offense and 64th in total defense. He is expected to assemble a staff including outside coordinators and an NFL-style general manager to aid in rebuilding the program.
Despite a 4-8 record this season, the Gators displayed potential in thier final game, a 40-21 victory over rival Florida State highlighted by a career-high 266 rushing yards and two touchdowns from Jadan Baugh, and three passing touchdowns from DJ lagway.
