Florida State University fired head football coach Mike Norvell on November 1, 2026, after a 3-4 start to the season, marking the program's third consecutive loss to Clemson. Norvell had a 23-4 record in 2022-23 but the Seminoles declined to 2-10 in 2024, 5-7 in 2025, and 3-4 in 2026. The buyout is reported around $50 million.
The coaching search begins with Duke head coach Manny Diaz identified as a leading candidate. Diaz, a Florida State alumnus (class of 1995) and Miami native, is 6-2 at Duke this season and 18-9 overall in his first two seasons. He led Duke to the 2025 ACC championship with an overtime win over Virginia and signed a contract extension through 2031 in April 2026. Diaz previously served as Miami head coach (2019-2021, 21-15 record) and Penn State defensive coordinator.
Florida State historically ranks among the top destinations in college football, but the substantial buyout may complicate the search. Additional candidates are being evaluated by the program's leadership.
