The next Auburn football head coach is not yet decided as of the latest reporting, with Auburn actively conducting a coaching search after parting ways with Hugh Freeze on November 1, 2025. Multiple candidates have been linked to the job in recent coverage, including both established college coaches and rising stars, but no official hire has been announced at this time. The process is fluid, and selections are typically influenced by factors like program fit, recruiting connections, and the ability to compete in the SEC. What to know right now

• Interim leadership: D.J. Durkin has been named the interim head coach as Auburn navigates the search, providing continuity while the process unfolds. This maintains on-field leadership during a critical recruiting and evaluation period. [Source coverage indicates Auburn announced leadership change and Durkin’s interim role].

• Leading candidates: Media coverage from major outlets has highlighted several prominent and rising names as potential fits for the Auburn job, including:
  • Jon Sumrall, Tulane’s head coach, who has SEC ties and a track record of success in the region and in recruiting. [ESPN and SI-style candidacy discussions reference Sumrall as a top outside-the-Power-4 option].

* Brent Key, Georgia Tech head coach, noted for strong results and regional recruiting connections, with Alabama/SEC links in his background. [ESPN and multiple columns name Key among top possibilities].

* Other names on various hot boards include established Power 5 assistants and external hires, with speculation about options in the lane including established SEC coaches. Coverage across multiple outlets reflects a broad field of candidates rather than a single clear favorite at this moment..

• Timeline and process: Auburn’s athletic department has stated the search is underway and will evaluate candidates with the goal of returning the program to championships contention. Expect formal interviews, consultations with senior leadership, and strategic considerations around recruiting, NIL, and conference alignment..

Direct answer

• As of now, the next Auburn football coach has not been officially announced. Auburn is in the middle of a coaching search, with interim head coach D.J. Durkin leading the program temporarily. Multiple candidates have been discussed by national outlets, but no definitive hire has been made publicly.