AUBURN, Ala. (WDNews) – After Auburn University announced the firing of Head Football Coach Hugh Freeze on Sunday, the question now is—who takes the reins next?
The decision to part ways with Freeze followed Saturday’s 10-3 loss to Kentucky, dropping the Tigers to 4-5 on the season. With the move, Auburn will now search for its fourth head coach in just five years, signaling a program eager to return to national prominence.
Athletic Director John Cohen confirmed that Defensive Coordinator D.J. Durkin will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Durkin, who has prior head coaching experience at Maryland and a reputation for defensive intensity, will lead the Tigers as the university begins its nationwide search.
Several names are already emerging as potential replacements. Among them: Penn State’s James Franklin, South Florida’s Alex Golesh, and Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin—all of whom bring proven offensive experience and recruiting success. Others mentioned include Kentucky’s Mark Stoops and Liberty’s Jamey Chadwell, who continues to rise as one of college football’s most innovative coaches.
Auburn’s leadership is expected to prioritize a candidate with SEC experience and a track record of developing quarterbacks—two areas where the Tigers have struggled in recent seasons.
The university will also need to weigh the financial impact, as Freeze’s buyout reportedly ranges from $15 to $16 million. That payout adds pressure to ensure the next hire is a long-term solution.
As Auburn prepares for the remainder of the 2025 season under Durkin, fans and alumni alike are watching closely, hopeful the next chapter will bring consistency, excitement, and a return to championship contention on the Plains.
