Hugh Freeze was fired by Auburn in November 2025, and multiple reports and outlets identified a list of potential replacements, with Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall frequently highlighted as a leading candidate. Other commonly discussed names included Jon Sumrall, James Franklin, Alex Golesh, Lane Kiffin, and several others connected to Power 5 programs. As of the latest updates, Auburn had begun its coaching search with defensive coordinator DJ Durkin serving as interim head coach while the process unfolded.

Direct answer:

• The most frequently mentioned replacement candidate in major coverage was Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall, seen by many as the leading or highly intriguing option to become Auburn’s next head coach.

• Auburn also explored other high-profile possibilities, including names like James Franklin, Lane Kiffin, Alex Golesh, and Dan Mullen, among others, as part of a broad coaching search.

• Interim leadership at Auburn during the search was provided by defensive coordinator DJ Durkin, who stepped in as interim head coach after Freeze’s dismissal.

If you’d like, I can summarize each candidate’s background, fit with Auburn, and potential pros/cons based on the latest reporting.