Florida State Fires Norvell, Begins Search for New Coach

Florida State has fired head coach Mike Norvell, ending his tenure after a 4-17 record in the ACC since the start of 2024 and a 10-23 record in the 33 games that followed. The decision comes as the program continues its rebuild following a dramatic decline from an undefeated regular season three years ago.

The school faces over $437 million in athletics debt, up from $237 million a year earlier. Norvell's buyout could exceed $65 million, with his personal obligation ranging from $47.1 million to $50.3 million. The cost of hiring a new head coach and staff will also be a factor in the search.

The athletics department, which fired athletic director Mike Alford in September, does not yet have a permanent leader. The search for a new head coach will be complicated by financial obligations and the need to find someone who can turn around a struggling program.

Seven candidates, including Duke's Manny Diaz and Missouri's Eli Drinkwitz, are being considered for the job. Diaz, who previously coached at Miami, has a strong ACC resume but may face scrutiny over his past performance there. Drinkwitz, with a 64-32 record as an FBS head coach, has experience in the ACC.

Other candidates include Wake Forest's Jake Dickert, Arizona State's Kenny Dillingham, and New Mexico's Jason Eck. Dickert's contract may include noncompete clauses that could limit his availability. Eck, known for his defensive success, has no ties to the Southeast.

Wild-card options include LSU's Blake Baker, who has a strong track record as a defensive coordinator. Baker turned down feelers from Tulane and Memphis last December to stay at LSU.