Florida Gators Overhaul Coaching Staff as Billy Gonzales Departs Under Jon Sumrall

The Florida Gators are undergoing a major staff transition. New head coach Jon Sumrall is reshaping the team’s leadership. Longtime assistant Billy Gonzales will not be retained. This marks a significant change for the program.

Florida Gators coaching staff

According to On3, Gonzales will not return for a fourth stint with Florida. He served as the interim head coach after Billy Napier’s dismissal. His final tenure included five games leading the team.

Sumrall Solidifies Coordinator Roles Amid Turnover

Jon Sumrall is moving quickly to build his staff. He has already secured a key defensive coordinator. Former Kentucky coordinator Brad White will lead the Gators’ defense.

On the offensive side, a hire is nearly complete. Georgia Tech offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner is expected to take the same role at Florida. These are foundational moves for Sumrall’s new regime.

Other staff departures are also confirmed. General manager Jacob LaFrance followed Napier to James Madison. Defensive coordinator Ron Roberts is expected to join Arkansas.

Focus Shifts to Remaining Staff and Future Vision

Sumrall’s philosophy is clear. He wants the best staff, not just his friends. He stated his goal is to assemble a group that develops players and wins championships.

Some current coaches may stay. Defensive line coach Gerald Chatman and running backs coach Jabbar Juluke are potential retainees. Their fates will be decided in the coming weeks.

Sumrall is balancing this hiring process with his current job. He is still coaching Tulane in the College Football Playoff. His full attention will shift to Gainesville after their season ends.

The reshaping of the Florida Gators coaching staff is now fully underway. Jon Sumrall is putting his definitive stamp on the program’s future. These initial moves signal a clear new direction for Gators football.

Info at your fingertips

Why is Billy Gonzales leaving Florida?

New head coach Jon Sumrall is not retaining him. Gonzales served as interim coach but will not be part of the new staff’s plans moving forward.

Who are the new coordinators for the Gators?

Brad White from Kentucky is the new defensive coordinator. Buster Faulkner from Georgia Tech is expected to be the offensive coordinator.

Which current staff members might stay with Florida?

Defensive line coach Gerald Chatman and running backs coach Jabbar Juluke are candidates to be retained. Final decisions are pending as Sumrall completes his staff.

When will the new coaching staff be finalized?

Jon Sumrall is expected to finalize hires in the coming weeks. He is currently finishing the season as head coach of Tulane University.

What did Billy Gonzales say about his departure?

Gonzales expressed his love for the university. He stated he wants the players to experience success at Florida regardless of his own status.