Tulane Tabs Will Hall as Head Coach Following Sumrall’s Florida Exit

Tulane University has named its next football leader. The Green Wave promoted pass game coordinator Will Hall to head coach. This move follows Jon Sumrall’s departure to the University of Florida.

The decision was confirmed on December 8th. It brings immediate stability to a program preparing for the College Football Playoff. According to reports from On3, the promotion is now official.

Hall Brings Experience and Program Familiarity

Will Hall is not a stranger to Tulane. He served as the team’s offensive coordinator in 2019 and 2020. His offenses were productive, averaging over 33 points per game.

He returned to New Orleans in 2025 under Sumrall. Hall has extensive head coaching experience. He led Southern Miss from 2021 to 2024 and has a 70-50 career record.

His offensive scheme has shown results this season. Transfer quarterback Jake Retzlaff has thrown for 2,862 yards under Hall’s guidance. This internal promotion aims for a smooth transition.

Navigating an Unusual Playoff Transition

The timing of this hire is unique. Outgoing coach Jon Sumrall will remain for the playoff. He will lead Tulane against Ole Miss on December 20th.

This allows Hall to focus on future planning immediately. The Green Wave enter the CFP as significant underdogs. The game marks the end of one era and a bridge to the next.

The coaching carousel continues to turn nationally. South Florida hired Ohio State’s Brian Hartline. Meanwhile, Southern Miss, where Hall was previously fired, found its own new leader in Charles Huff.

Tulane’s choice of Will Hall prioritizes continuity in a period of dramatic change. The program hopes his deep roots and offensive mind will sustain their recent success. The Green Wave’s new chapter begins now.

Thought you’d like to know

Who did Tulane’s new coach, Will Hall, replace?

He replaces Jon Sumrall. Sumrall left Tulane after one season to become the head coach at the University of Florida. He will still coach Tulane in their upcoming playoff game.

Has Will Hall been a head coach before?

Yes, he has extensive head coaching experience. Hall was the head coach at Southern Miss from 2021 to 2024. Before that, he was a successful head coach at the Division II level.

What is unique about this coaching transition?

The outgoing coach is staying for the postseason. Jon Sumrall will coach Tulane in the College Football Playoff despite already taking the Florida job. This is a rare occurrence in major college football.

When is Tulane’s next game?

Tulane plays Ole Miss in the College Football Playoff on December 20th. They are considered heavy underdogs in the matchup. Jon Sumrall will be their coach for that final game.

Why did Tulane promote from within?

Promoting Will Hall ensures schematic and cultural continuity. He already knows the players and the system. This can provide stability during a chaotic coaching carousel period.