Florida football coaching search 2025: Candidates, hot board, names to watch from Gators experts

The University of Florida is searching for a new head football coach after the dismissal of Billy Napier on October 19th, 2025. The Swamp247 team has provided a list of potential candidates and a coaching hot board. The top contenders include current NFL offensive coordinator Dan Mullen, former Gators player and current college head coach Luke Fickell, and veteran college coach James Franklin. Other names to watch include Dabo Swinney, Deion Sanders, and Mario Cristobal. The coaching search is expected to be highly competitive, with the Gators program looking to regain its status as a national powerhouse. The new head coach will be tasked with rebuilding the team and restoring the program's reputation. The Swamp247 experts have provided an in-depth analysis of each candidate's strengths, weaknesses, and fit for the Florida job. The university's administration is expected to make a decision in the coming weeks.