The University of Florida is poised to welcome Phil Trautwein as its newest offensive line coach under head coach Jon Sumrall, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation. This news follows earlier reports indicating that Trautwein had been interviewed for the position, which has been vacant since the previous coaching staff’s departure.
Trautwein, 39, brings a wealth of experience from his recent tenure as the offensive line coach at Penn State. Over the past six years, he has demonstrated a significant ability to develop talent, mentoring 31 all-conference offensive linemen while leading Penn State’s powerful front. His impact is underscored by the fact that seven offensive linemen were selected in the NFL Draft during his time with the Nittany Lions, including standout first-round picks such as Olu Fashanu and Chris Lindstrom.
Prior to his successful stint at Penn State, Trautwein helmed the offensive line at Boston College from 2018 to 2019 and had previously garnered experience as a graduate assistant with the Eagles and as a special teams coordinator at Davidson. His coaching strategy has not only fostered individual accolades for his players but has also emphasized team success, as shown by his ability to recruit top talent—serving as the primary recruiter for multiple five-star and four-star offensive linemen during his time at Penn State.
Born in Voorhees Township, New Jersey, Trautwein’s connection to Florida runs deep. He spent five seasons as a player with the Gators under coaches Ron Zook and Urban Meyer, earning All-SEC honors in both 2006 and 2008. His college career culminated in back-to-back BCS National Championships, and he started 29 of the 46 games in which he appeared.
Trautwein transitioned to professional football after college, signing as an undrafted free agent with the St. Louis Rams and later joining other NFL teams including the Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and San Diego Chargers, where he made a total of four appearances.
In a recent interview, Trautwein reflected on the challenges and changes within his career, particularly regarding the coaching transitions at Penn State, where he expressed a commitment to the program while acknowledging the emotional toll of staffing changes. He emphasized the importance of focusing on immediate goals, such as winning games, and fostering development among his players.
With his combination of playing and coaching experience, Trautwein is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Florida’s offensive line, aiming to elevate the team’s performance in upcoming seasons. His knowledge and connections in the recruiting landscape may also play a crucial role in enhancing the Gators’ roster going forward.
