Florida’s Jon Sumrall Announced QB News Before 2026 Season
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The Florida Gators are two weeks away from starting their season against Florida Atlantic with some big decisions to make.
Gators head coach Jon Sumrall is entering his first season as the head coach after spending the last two with Tulane. Sumrall’s biggest decision is who to name as the starting quarterback.
The competition has been between Aaron Philo and Tramell Jones Jr. It appears as though Sumrall has his mind made up on who will lead his football program onto the field against the Owls.
Jon Sumrall Announces Florida Gators’ Starting QB for Game 1
GettyUniversity of Florida head football coach Jon Sumrall.
Sumrall met with the media on Monday and announced his decision on the new quarterback. He said the team is moving forward with Philo as the starter for the Gators against Florida Atlantic.
Philo spent the last two seasons as the backup quarterback to Haynes King with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. During that span, Philo completed 57.8% of his passes for 938 yards and 2 touchdowns to 3 interceptions. He added 95 rushing yards and 1 touchdown on 16 carries.
The Gators are getting a versatile quarterback who can make plays with his legs. While he may not have the starting experience, Philo has played enough games to make an impact from the first game of the season.
Florida Gators Rolling With Aaron Philo as Starting QB
GettyGAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – APRIL 11: Aaron Philo #12 of the Florida Gators looks for a pass during the Florida Gators Orange and Blue Game at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on April 11, 2026 in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by Dustin Markland/Getty Images for ONIT)
Philo impressed during spring practice and caught his coaches’ attention. It was a tough battle for the starting job with Jones, but ultimately the Gators chose Philo.
Florida is a school going through transition after going 4-8 in 2025. The Gators started 1-3 and finished by losing four of their five games.
Sumrall had success with the Green Wave over the last two years, leading Tulane to a 20-8 overall record. His team lost in the first round of the College Football Playoffs. He coached Tulane in the game while also serving as the Gators’ new head coach.
It’s going to be a tough season for Florida, as the SEC continues to improve; Alabama, LSU, and Georgia lead the conference. The Gators hope their new head coach and multiple transfers can help the team.
All eyes now turn to Philo to lead a Florida offense that struggled throughout last season. He brings a different dynamic to the role that should give the Gators what they’ve needed in the unit for a long time.
Florida’s offense will be able to open up with Philo’s athleticism being on full display. Using his legs and arm strength, he should be able to spread defenses out and keep them off guard.
The Gators’ first game against Florida Atlantic should give Philo a good matchup to learn on the job. Expect mistakes, but the young quarterback could make a statement if they blow out a team they should beat.
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