Mike Norvell out at Florida State following 3-5 start
TALLAHASSEE — Florida State University announced the firing of head coach Mike Norvell on Sunday, hours after a 36-24 loss to Clemson dropped the Seminoles to 3-5.
The decision ends Norvell's five-year tenure at Florida State, where he compiled a 29-21 record and guided the program to a 13-0 regular season in 2023. Florida State will owe Norvell nearly $50 million, subject to mitigation clauses, making it the third-largest buyout in college football history.
Norvell, 42, was hired in December 2021 and brought immediate success, including two 10-win seasons at Florida State and two more at Memphis. His 2023 team finished the regular season undefeated, though subsequent seasons saw the Seminoles fail to replicate that success.
The program's slow start in 2026 prompted the decision, with athletic director Michael Alford citing the need for a change in direction. Norvell's firing comes as Florida State looks to rebuild following a period of transition.
Despite the coaching change, commitment to the program persists. 2027 three-star edge recruit Anthony Cavallaro reaffirmed his commitment to Florida State on Sunday, stating through 247Sports that despite the 'unfortunate' loss of Norvell, his commitment wasn't changing. Cavallaro, the No. 33 edge prospect in Florida, shut down his recruitment in May after an official visit.
Norvell now turns his attention to future opportunities. Industry sources indicate he prefers returning as a head coach, though the market may be limited this cycle unless a significant domino effect triggers. Potential suitors include Memphis, should Charles Huff receive a Power Four job elsewhere, and programs in the Maryland and Baylor searches. Norvell has also been mentioned as a candidate for offensive coordinator positions at Oregon and Oklahoma, both of which are seeking new coordinators after recent firings.
Norvell's relationship with Oregon head coach Dan Lanning — dating back to their days working together on Todd Graham's Pittsburgh staff and most recently at Memphis — could factor into any OC pursuit. If Norvell takes an assistant role, it could serve as a pathway back to a head coaching position down the line.
As Norvell evaluates his next move, one thing is clear: his reputation as an offensive-minded coach with strong X's and O's credentials remains intact, and he will have the financial flexibility to be choosy about his next opportunity.
