Auburn is deep into its search for a new head coach after parting ways with Hugh Freeze midseason, and a wide range of candidates has surfaced. Some options make obvious sense, while others, like Jon Gruden, feel more far-fetched. With the regular season winding down, speculation is only intensifying. The Tigers aren’t expected to pursue big names like Lane Kiffin, but there are still several high-end candidates who would be strong fits.
On his “Always College Football” podcast, former quarterback and current ESPN analyst Greg McElroy made his preference clear. He believes Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall should be Auburn’s top choice. McElroy said the Auburn job has always been appealing because the right coach can win big, and he thinks Sumrall is exactly that type of leader.
According to McElroy, Sumrall matches Auburn’s ideal profile: a disciplined coach with strong organizational skills and deep regional connections. Sumrall has coached at Tulane, Troy, and within the SEC, and he’s known for elevating programs beyond expectations at every stop. McElroy praised his structure, program-building ability, and belief that he could steer Auburn in the right direction.
Sumrall has quickly elevated Tulane since taking over in 2024, compiling a 41–11 record. This year, the Green Wave are 9–2 and ranked No. 24, with Sumrall at the center of their rise. If Auburn ultimately chooses him, he would be a compelling choice to revive the program, potentially bringing the Tigers back into contention sooner rather than later.