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Florida Coaching Shakeup: Who Will Lead the Gators Next?

Source: Florida coaching rumors tracker: Latest news on Lane Kiffin, Eli Drinkwitz, more potential Billy Napier replacements (2025-11-23)

The Florida Gators are at the heart of the college football coaching carousel, with intense speculation about who will replace Billy Napier. As of late November 2025, the search is heating up, with Lane Kiffin and Eli Drinkwitz among the top names linked to the vacancy. Florida’s storied program remains a coveted destination, but the challenge lies in convincing high-profile coaches to leave their current positions for Gainesville’s high expectations and SEC competition. Ole Miss’s Kiffin’s future remains uncertain, with an update expected after their upcoming game against Mississippi State, potentially signaling a move to Florida. Meanwhile, other candidates like Drinkwitz are also in the mix, reflecting the high stakes of this coaching search. The Gators’ ability to attract a marquee coach could hinge on their recent performance, recruiting strength, and the program’s long-term vision. Beyond the immediate coaching rumors, several recent developments and facts are shaping the landscape of college football coaching in 2025: 1. **SEC Dominance Continues:** The SEC remains the premier conference, with five teams in the latest College Football Playoff rankings, emphasizing the importance of coaching excellence in the region. 2. **Kiffin’s Contract Negotiations:** Lane Kiffin recently signed a lucrative extension with Ole Miss, but sources suggest the deal includes a buyout clause that could facilitate a move if Florida offers a compelling package. 3. **Eli Drinkwitz’s Rising Profile:** Missouri’s coach has gained national attention for turning around the Tigers’ program, making him a serious candidate for high-profile jobs. 4. **Florida’s Recent Performance:** The Gators finished the season with a 9-3 record, showing promise but also highlighting the need for a coach with SEC-winning experience. 5. **Recruiting Impact:** The coaching change could significantly influence Florida’s recruiting class, which currently ranks in the top 10 nationally, with key prospects watching the coaching situation closely. 6. **Broader Coaching Market Trends:** The 2025 coaching carousel is characterized by high-profile moves, with several coaches receiving extensions or being linked to multiple programs, reflecting a competitive and dynamic landscape. 7. **Program Stability and Expectations:** Florida’s administration emphasizes the importance of stability and winning culture, making the coaching hire critical for future success. As the college football season concludes, the coaching carousel continues to spin rapidly. Florida’s next head coach will need to balance recruiting prowess, SEC experience, and the ability to elevate the program to national prominence. Whether they land Lane Kiffin, Eli Drinkwitz, or another rising star, the decision will shape the Gators’ trajectory for years to come. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, knowing that the right hire could restore Florida’s status as a perennial powerhouse in college football.

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