In a significant development for the Florida Gators football program, Phil Trautwein, a two-time national champion and former team captain, is set to join Jon Sumrall’s coaching staff as the new offensive line coach. The news was reported by On3’s Pete Nakos and marks a notable return to Gainesville for Trautwein, who played for the Gators from 2004 to 2008.
Currently, Trautwein has been serving as the offensive line coach at Penn State since 2020, where he has made a considerable impact over the past six years. During his time there, he has produced 39 all-conference selections, showcasing his ability to develop top-tier talent. His coaching prowess is further evidenced by helping three offensive linemen become first-round picks in the NFL Draft and contributing to seven players being drafted over the last six years—placing him among the elite offensive line coaches in the nation.
Trautwein’s own playing career at the University of Florida was distinguished. As a member of the Gators, he secured two national titles and two Southeastern Conference championships. In 2008, he was recognized with first-team All-SEC honors, affirming his talent and leadership on the field. After college, Trautwein transitioned to the NFL, where he played from 2009 to 2012 with four different teams, including the St. Louis Rams, Cleveland Browns, New Orleans Saints, and San Diego Chargers.
He began his coaching career in 2013 as a graduate assistant at Boston College and then moved on to Davidson College, where he served as both the special teams coordinator and tight ends coach before returning to Boston College as the offensive line coach from 2018 to 2019.
With Trautwein’s hiring, he becomes the fourth assistant to join Sumrall’s staff, following offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, defensive coordinator Brade White, and defensive line coach Gerald Chatman. There are also ongoing discussions about filling the running backs coach position, with reports indicating that longtime SEC assistant coach Derrick Nix has recently interviewed for the role after serving as Auburn’s offensive coordinator for the past two years.
Trautwein’s return to Florida is anticipated to bolster the Gators’ offensive line, as he brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. His educational background includes degrees from the University of Florida and Boston College, combined with a strong family foundation, as he is married with three children. As he embarks on this new chapter with the Gators, expectations are high for Trautwein to replicate his previous successes and elevate the program’s performance.
