The University of Florida has officially appointed Jon Sumrall as its new head football coach following the departure of Lane Kiffin to LSU. Sumrall, who previously served as the head coach at Tulane, was introduced during a press conference on December 1, 2025, at the James W. Heavener Football Training Center in Gainesville, Florida.
In his introductory remarks, Sumrall addressed the speculation surrounding his status as Florida’s second choice after Kiffin opted for LSU. He emphasized his commitment to the Gators and expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity ahead. “We had choices. My wife and I sat down, and we chose Florida. Florida had to choose us, but we chose them back,” Sumrall stated, highlighting the mutual interest in the coaching position.
Kiffin’s decision to leave Ole Miss for LSU has shifted the landscape of college football. His departure leaves Ole Miss in the hands of defensive coordinator Pete Golding, who will lead the team into the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, Sumrall will continue coaching Tulane as they prepare for the American Conference Championship Game against North Texas, scheduled for Friday night.
Sumrall reflected on his journey, acknowledging the support he received from Troy University, where he began his head coaching career. “I was a linebacker coach/co-defensive coordinator that most people in America didn’t know my name unless you really loved studying football,” he remarked, expressing gratitude to the university’s chancellor, Dr. Jack Hawkins, and athletic director Brent Jones for believing in him.
The new head coach cited the challenges he faces at Florida compared to his previous role at Troy, where he successfully turned the program around. He noted that Florida’s situation presents a unique set of challenges, but he is not viewing it as a rebuilding phase. “I’m not saying this is Troy. I know it’s different. That job was actually an easier rebuild because the players, the locker room. There were a bunch of good players,” he explained.
Florida’s recent performance has been disappointing, finishing the 2025 season with a record of 4-8, the worst since 2013. Former head coach Billy Napier concluded his tenure with a 22-23 overall record, and Sumrall’s immediate goal is to restore success to the program. He aims to win games and build a competitive team rather than enter a long-term rebuilding process.
The Gators’ new coach has an impressive track record, having led Tulane to a 10-2 record this season, and he aims to leverage his experience to elevate Florida’s program. As he embarks on this new chapter, Sumrall is determined to instill a culture of winning and commitment among the players, stating, “The decision I’m making is about which team I’m going to coach in 2026, not in 2025.”
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, Sumrall’s hiring marks a significant moment for the Gators as they look to redefine their identity and competitiveness in the Southeastern Conference. With the support of the university and a fresh vision for the program, Florida hopes to regain its standing as a powerhouse in college football.
