On Sunday, the athletic director of the Tulane Green Wave, David Harris, explained that his decision to allow head coach Jon Sumrall to finish the season — despite Sumrall having accepted a new head-coaching position — was grounded in trust. Harris emphasized that throughout their regular meetings, Sumrall had been honest and transparent about both the program’s status and his own career aspirations. Because of that openness, Harris said he never had to “wonder and worry” about hidden motives.
Harris stated that he believes Sumrall to be “a man of his word,” and he felt it was in the best interest of the student-athletes to maintain continuity for the remainder of the year. With the Green Wave at 10–2 and poised to compete in the American Conference championship — and potentially for a berth in the College Football Playoff — Harris judged that Sumrall’s leadership should continue through the postseason.
At the same time, the university has already initiated a search to find Sumrall’s permanent successor. While the program offered Sumrall what was described as a “competitive” retention package, he declined it. Harris affirmed that some candidates under consideration may come from the current staff, prioritizing those who already understand the dynamics and needs of the program.
In announcing the decision, Harris reiterated that his primary concern was the welfare and stability of the team. He said granting Sumrall permission to finish the season allowed the athletes to compete for a championship under consistent leadership — a path he believed to be in the best interest of the players.
