The University of Florida coaching candidate carousel continues to swirl.

On Sunday night every sign indicated that the Gators football program was smitten with Ole Miss head coach Hugh Freeze. Sources had stated that athletic director Jeremy Foley had even extended him an offer somewhere north of $4 million dollars.

Hugh Freeze A Potential Candidate for Gators' gig

Now, on Monday afternoon speculation has settled around a new candidate du jour. According to news first broken by Football Scoop and relayed via USA Today's The Big Lead, UF is apparently kicking the tires on New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels as well.

Foley and the rest of the Florida search committee is intrigued by McDaniels for his prowess as an offensive play caller. The Gators struggled in offensive efficiency in their four years under ex-coach Will Muschamp, and are said to be prioritizing candidates known for leading high-octane offenses. McDaniels certainly fits that bill.

Florida Expects To Have A New Coach By Christmas

Although McDaniels struggled in his only-ever head coaching gig with the Denver Broncos, Football Scoop states that his time spent under legends like Bill Belichick and Nick Saban (at Michigan State) designates him as a "viable candidate" in Florida's eyes.