Auburn is continuing its search for a new head football coach after parting ways with former leader Hugh Freeze earlier in the season. The program remains one of the most appealing openings in this year’s coaching carousel, comparable to high-profile vacancies at LSU, Florida, and Arkansas. Because of that status, Auburn is in position to attract one of the rising stars in the college football coaching landscape.
During a Friday appearance on “The Paul Finebaum Show,” ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel pointed to Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall as the “prime candidate” for the job. Thamel added, “I think Jon Sumrall has been a prime candidate and target from the start of that job. There’s obviously complications with Tulane being a potential Playoff team. But, it wouldn’t be a surprise if that’s where Auburn ends up.”
Sumrall currently has Tulane in strong position with an 8-2 record and a No. 24 ranking in the College Football Playoff standings as the Green Wave enter the final phase of their 2025 schedule. Should his team finish the season without another loss, Tulane could secure a place in the expanded 12-team Playoff — a scenario that might make his potential move to Auburn more complicated.
Ole Miss Situation
Sumrall has built a consistent track record of success as a head coach. Before arriving at Tulane, he posted a 23-4 overall mark while guiding Troy from 2022 through 2023. At 43 years old, he has already demonstrated his ability to elevate programs quickly. His first season with the Green Wave resulted in a 9-5 finish, setting the stage for this season’s notable run.
Next up for Sumrall and Tulane is a Saturday matchup against Temple, followed by their regular-season finale against Charlotte. Meanwhile, Auburn is preparing for its remaining games under interim coach D.J. Durkin. The Tigers will take on Mercer in a tune-up contest this weekend before they square off with Alabama in the Iron Bowl to conclude the 2025 regular season.