The situation has become increasingly complicated for the Florida Gators as they continue their search for a new head coach following the dismissal of Billy Napier. In just over three years at the helm, Napier compiled a losing record of 22-23, falling short of the expectations set when he was hired to return the university to national prominence.
His inability to elevate the program ultimately led to his departure, but now the school faces an equally challenging task: identifying the right successor to lead them forward.
For more than a month, speculation within the college football landscape has suggested that the next head coach of the Gators, replacing Billy Napier, will be the current Ole Miss Rebels leader, Lane Kiffin. Reports indicate that on Sunday, November 16, members of Kiffin's family were seen on the university's campus, fueling talk of growing mutual interest. The Gators consider him a top contender capable of giving the program a much-needed turnaround.
For now, however, the Rebels' head coach remains focused on guiding his team into this year's postseason. Because of this, the Gators may be forced to explore alternative options if Kiffin ultimately decides to stay in Oxford and continue his current project.
On Wednesday, November 19, Zach Alboverdi of On3's Gators Online posted on his X account:
Florida to meet with Tulane coach Jon Sumrall about the Gators job.
Zach Alboverdi of On3's Gators Online
It is worth recalling that coach Jon Sumrall has been leading the Tulane program for two seasons. During this period, he has guided the team to a 17-7 record, and in the 2024 campaign, he elevated them to No. 24 in the rankings heading into the postseason. His work has drawn praise, particularly for maintaining consistency in a competitive environment.
Before arriving at Tulane, Sumrall oversaw the Troy program, where he achieved remarkable success. His teams amassed a combined record of 24-3 during his tenure, a mark that significantly raised his profile in coaching circles. Because of those accomplishments, he is also being considered as a potential replacement at Ole Miss should Kiffin decide to leave the Rebels for another opportunity.
For the moment, rumors will continue swirling until their primary target, Lane Kiffin, chooses whether or not to take the reins of the Florida Gators for the 2026 season. It could be a matter of days or possibly weeks before the university is ready to make an official announcement.