Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall has emerged as the clear favorite to become the next head coach at Florida, sources told ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Florida moved on from Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin earlier this week after signals through back-channel talks suggested Kiffin is exploring other possibilities, most likely staying at Ole Miss or pursuing the expected opening at LSU.
Sumrall is expected to make a final decision by Sunday morning on whether to remain at Tulane or accept the Gators job. Auburn showed strong early interest but has since pivoted to other candidates, further solidifying Florida’s position as the leader, sources said.
The 43-year-old Sumrall, a former Kentucky player and assistant who later served as co-defensive coordinator for the Wildcats, is 18-7 in two seasons at Tulane after winning back-to-back Sun Belt titles at Troy in 2022 and 2023. He earned a contract extension after just one year with the Green Wave.
Tulane (9-2) closes the regular season Saturday night against Charlotte, with a win clinching a spot in the AAC championship game against North Texas.
