ORLANDO, Fla. – Welcome home, Urban Meyer.
Welcome back to crocodile country.
Welcome back to the University of Florida family.
As one of Meyer’s biggest critics, let me say this:
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It’s time.
In a decision that pissed off some city haters, Florida State has made it clear that Meyer should get back on track with the program — and it’s no longer going to be done quietly or awkwardly.
Back in November, Meyer was celebrated at a University of Florida football game in recognition of his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame. Next year, his name will be added to the Ring of Honor – the most sacred piece on the court. If there were any lingering doubts about where Meyer stands now, they disappeared when he sat next to Florida State’s greatest legend, Steve Spurrier, during new head coach Jon Sumrall’s introductory press conference and recorded an impassioned video in support of Sumrall’s hiring.
There is no mysterious distance.
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No half-hearted olive branches.
A full hug.
The Urbanator is definitely in the UF’s favor again.
The Gators are better at that.
Let’s be honest: College football has always been built on complex people, and they sometimes leave a scorched earth behind. Meyer’s legacy is a paradox—undeniable greatness intertwined with troubling controversy. For all the turmoil he witnessed, he also orchestrated one of the most dominant games in modern college football. Championships are forever, and there are no asterisks on Florida’s trophy case.
Still, it’s impossible to ignore the extent of the breakdown in relations between the two countries. Despite leading the Gators to two national championships, Meyer became persona non grata after abruptly exiting the program and returning as Ohio State’s head coach a few months later. It certainly didn’t help that he won another national championship at Ohio State, and the Gators have mired in mediocrity since his departure. His resume also includes conduct at Florida State, Ohio State and later with the Jacksonville Jaguars that raised serious moral and ethical questions.
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These realities do not disappear with the passage of time.
But this welcome-back moment is not about whitewashing history. It’s about maturity.
This is an acknowledgment that coaching can be both transformational and flawed. With time and perspective, these legacies can be revisited and renamed. The program has grown up. The fan base keeps growing. Yes, forgiveness often follows.
More importantly, Meyer’s return says a lot about where Florida football is today.
It signals confidence and forward momentum.
Samrall, whose Tulane team will compete in the College Football Playoff this weekend, enters Gainesville, Fla., with energy, credibility and the blessing of Meyer and Spurrier. This is important. Not tactically. Not schematically. But symbolically.
Welcome back, Urban Meyer.
The circle is finally closed.
The University of Florida’s past is peaceful and its future is open.
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