The Auburn Tigers are on the lookout for a new head coach as they prepare for the 2026 season and beyond. Currently, D.J. Durkin, who transitioned from being the head coach of the Maryland Terrapins to the Tigers” defensive coordinator in 2024, is serving as the interim head coach. However, it is anticipated that Durkin will not be the long-term solution for Auburn. He has three games to prove his worth, and victories against Vanderbilt and Alabama could bolster his chances of securing the position permanently. Nevertheless, it appears that John Cohen, Auburn”s athletic director, will be searching beyond the current staff for a successor to Hugh Freeze.
According to SEC expert Paul Finebaum, Auburn should consider recruiting Jon Sumrall, the head coach of Tulane. Sumrall has led the Green Wave to a strong record of 6-2 this season and an overall record of 15-7 over the past two years. Finebaum highlighted Sumrall”s hard-nosed coaching style, suggesting that he would resonate with Auburn fans, evoking memories of former coach Pat Dye. Finebaum discussed this perspective on the radio show “McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning.”
The mention of Dye, who achieved a remarkable 99-39-4 record during his tenure from 1981 to 1992, is likely to attract attention from Auburn supporters. Dye was instrumental in securing four SEC championships and earned SEC Coach of the Year honors in 1983, 1987, and 1988. Comparisons to such a revered figure would undoubtedly make any candidate, like Sumrall, an immediate fan favorite.
At 43 years old, Sumrall is seen as an emerging talent in collegiate football. Having played linebacker at the University of Kentucky from 2002 to 2004, he possesses firsthand experience of what it takes to compete in the SEC. His coaching journey includes positions at Ole Miss as the linebackers coach in 2018 and at Kentucky as the inside linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator from 2019 to 2021. His first head coaching role at Troy saw him achieve an impressive 23-4 record over two seasons.
Finebaum noted that Sumrall”s potential is appealing, particularly as Auburn aims to steer clear of candidates who may have already reached their peak. He emphasized that Auburn”s unique culture requires a coach who can connect with the university and its fan base. Finebaum stated, “I think Auburn is a little bit more unique. I don”t think you can just go to ChatGPT and type in what you want. I think you have to find someone who can relate to that school and the fanbase and the family.” He underscored the importance of finding a candidate with experience, talent, and, most importantly, potential.
With Sumrall”s impressive track record and coaching style, it will be fascinating to see if the Tigers consider him for the head coaching position.
