Jon Sumrall Named Florida’s New Football Coach Following Kiffin’s Exit

The University of Florida has appointed Jon Sumrall as its new head football coach following the departure of Lane Kiffin to LSU. Sumrall’s hiring was officially announced during a press conference on December 1, 2025, at the James W. Heavener Football Training Center in Gainesville, Florida. The former head coach at Troy University will take over a team that finished the previous season with a disappointing record of 4-8, marking the worst performance for the Gators since 2013.

Sumrall, a former standout player at Grissom High School, addressed the media, acknowledging the circumstances that led to his appointment. “I understand some may see me as a second choice, but I believe I am the right man for this job,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to revitalizing the Gators program. Kiffin’s decision to join LSU left Florida without its primary target, prompting the search for a new leader to begin in earnest.

While Sumrall continues to coach Tulane University, where he has guided the Green Wave to a successful 10-2 record this season, he is preparing to transition to his new role. Tulane will compete against North Texas in the American Conference Championship Game on Friday night, allowing Sumrall to finish the season with his current team before fully dedicating himself to Florida.

Sumrall’s coaching journey began at Troy, where he served as a linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator before becoming head coach. He expressed gratitude to Troy University for the opportunity, highlighting the support he received from Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins and Athletic Director Brent Jones in his early coaching career. “They gave me the chance to be a first-time head coach, and for that, I will be forever grateful,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his past success at Troy, where he led the program to significant improvements, Sumrall acknowledged the challenge ahead in Gainesville. He noted that the rebuilding process at Florida might present unique obstacles compared to his time at Troy, where he had several talented players who contributed to the team’s revival. “I’m not saying this is Troy. I know it’s different,” he said, emphasizing the need for cultural shifts within the team and a renewed focus on toughness and passion.

Sumrall’s approach as the new head coach is clear: he aims to win immediately. He expressed confidence in his ability to lead the Gators back to prominence, stating, “The decision I’m making is about which team I’m going to coach in 2026, not in 2025.” Under the previous coach, Billy Napier, the Gators struggled to establish consistency, finishing with a record of 22-23 overall and 12-16 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

As Sumrall prepares to take on his new role, he remains committed to the success of Tulane for the remainder of the season. The Green Wave’s upcoming championship game will serve as a final opportunity for him to lead his current team before focusing entirely on the Gators.

The Gators’ fan base is eager for a turnaround, and Sumrall’s history of success at the collegiate level has generated optimism. With the right leadership and a clear vision for the program, Florida supporters hope to see their team return to its winning ways in the upcoming seasons.