Tulane University’s football program capped a historic 2025 campaign by securing the American Conference championship for the fourth straight year and earning its maiden berth in the College Football Playoff.
The celebration was tempered by a wave of departures that reshaped the roster. Head coach Jon Sumrall accepted the same position at the University of Florida, while quarterback Jake Retzlaff completed his college eligibility, and standout wide receiver Shazz Preston joined the transfer portal, among several other key contributors.
In response, the administration promoted Will Hall, a former Southern Mississippi head coach and longtime Tulane offensive coordinator, to the top seat, trusting his proven ability to guide teams to conference titles.
Hall immediately began assembling a new core, inking Louisiana native Destyn Hill, Houston quarterback Zeon Chriss‑Gremillion and several other transfer portal prospects into the fold.
Nevertheless, the team retained several anchors from the championship side, including safety Jack Tchienchou, linebackers Chris Rodgers and Makai Williams, and running back Jamauri McClure, who together provide continuity and leadership.
Tchienchou’s performance earned him the Most Outstanding Player award in the conference title game, while McClure contributed 121 rushing yards and a touchdown, underscoring the stability of the returning group.
The quarterback question remains the most intriguing storyline, as Chriss‑Gremillion was named the starter on August 24, 2026, inheriting the role from Kadin Semonza and true freshman Trace Johnson, despite having started only seven games at Houston in 2025.
Beyond the field, the turnover in coaching and personnel reflects a broader reality for non‑Power Five programs, where success hinges on navigating roster flux while maintaining competitive momentum.