The Troy University football program is on the hunt for a new head coach following the departure of Chip Sumrall. With a number of qualified candidates in the mix, the Trojans have a tough decision to make as they seek to maintain the success built under Sumrall's tenure.

One notable candidate that has emerged is former UAB head coach Bill Clark. Known for his remarkable job reviving the UAB program, Clark retired in 2022 due to back issues. However, reports suggest that the 55-year-old is eager to return to coaching. With an impressive record, going 60-30 in seven seasons as a head coach, Clark could bring a wealth of experience to Troy and benefit from the program's resources.

Tommie Robinson, a former Troy player and current Colorado staffer, is also in the running for the head coaching position. Robinson previously reached the finalist stage when Sumrall was hired and is expected to express his interest once again. With a coaching career that spans from local high schools to the NFL, Robinson's ability to recruit could be a valuable asset for the Trojans.

Another former Troy player, Jordan Lesley, is garnering attention as well. Currently serving as the defensive coordinator at West Virginia, Lesley has been recognized for his outstanding work at WVU under head coach Neal Brown. Having experienced success at Troy before, Lesley could be a familiar face that the school seriously considers for the position. West Virginia offensive line coach Matt Moore, who had previous stints at Troy, might also be in the mix.

Florida State offensive coordinator Alex Atkins has also thrown his hat in the ring. With a proven track record of transforming a struggling offensive line at FSU, Atkins has helped lead the Seminoles to an undefeated ACC championship season. His ability to develop players and provide strong leadership makes him an attractive candidate for the Trojans.

Dell McGee, currently the running back coach at the University of Georgia, is another name that could spark Troy's interest. With strong recruiting ties in the area and experience coaching in both the NFL and as a high school coach, McGee may find Troy's offer enticing.

Other potential candidates for the head coaching position include Al Pogue, assistant head coach/cornerbacks coach at Missouri, Reggie Barlow, head coach of the DC Defenders in the XFL, interim head coach Greg Gasparato, and Auburn secondary coach Zac Etheridge. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table, providing the Troy brass with a range of options to consider.

Intriguingly, Tee Martin, the Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks coach and former Tennessee standout, has also emerged as a wild card option for Troy. With deep ties in the region and a reputation as an excellent recruiter and developer of talent, Martin could be tempted to make a return to the college football ranks.

As the search for a new head coach intensifies, Troy University finds itself with a pool of qualified candidates who have ties to the program and the surrounding area. The decision-makers will need to carefully evaluate the strengths and qualities each candidate brings to the table in order to select the best fit to lead the Trojans into their next chapter.