Jon Sumrall describes impact of Steve Spurrier, being recruited by Urban Meyer in Florida coaching search

Former Florida head coaches Urban Meyer and Steve Spurrier were in attendance for new Gators HC Jon Sumrall‘s introductory press conference Monday. During an appearance on SportsCenter on Tuesday, Sumrall raved about the support of Meyer and Spurrier throughout his hiring process.

“Coach Meyer, Urban was really awesome because I think we’re wired similarly in how we view things. He kind of recruited me a little bit,” Sumrall said. “He wanted to check my mental a little bit and see, ‘Hey, what are you about?’ And we talked, hit it off with Urban. Loved visiting with him.

“Then, Coach Spurrier, man—like, Florida football and Coach Spurrier, they go hand in hand. All three of those guys were great throughout the process, and then to have them there yesterday, when I was named as the head football coach at the University of Florida meant the world to me.”

It’d be difficult to find two better mentors. Meyer coached Florida from 2005-10, winning two national titles during his tenure. Spurrier had a longer stay in Gainesville, coaching the Gators from 1990-2001. Spurrier led Florida to a national championship in 1996.

The team also won six SEC championships under his supervision. Evidently, Meyer conversed with Sumrall throughout his hiring process.

It’s no secret that Meyer is a fan of Sumrall’s. Last week, before Florida officially hired Sumrall, Meyer referred to the Tulane head coach as one of the best coaches in college football.

While Spurrier hadn’t been quite as outspoken in his admiration for Sumrall, he approves of the hire. On Another Dooley Noted Podcast, Spurrier raved about the 43-year-old head coach.

“I hope the Gators all get behind their new coach, Jon Sumrall,” Spurrier said. “He’s got a nice track record the last four years. He’s a winner. He took Troy—I forget exactly the record, and then Tulane is playing for another conference [championship] Friday night.

“They lost championship last year, but consistent winner. … He’ll bring some more energy and excitement to that sideline. I thought somebody down there needed to get mad occasionally or give a rah-rah, and I think Jon Sumrall will bring that energy that maybe we’ve been missing a little bit.”

Sumrall has been Tulane’s head coach since 2024. Prior to his time leading the Green Wave, he was the head coach at Troy for the 2022-23 seasons.

In his two seasons at Tulane, he’s amassed a 19-7 overall record and 14-2 mark in conference play. Sumrall plans on finishing the season with Tulane despite accepting the job offer from Florida.