Florida State University fired head football coach Mike Norvell on November 1, 2026, following a 3-4 start to the season and a third consecutive loss to Clemson. Norvell had a 23-4 record in 2022-23 but the program declined to 2-10 in 2024, 5-7 in 2025, and 3-4 in 2026.
The Seminoles face a reported $50 million buyout for Norvell, which may complicate the search for a new head coach. Florida State is historically a top destination in college football.
Early candidates include Duke head coach Manny Diaz, a Florida State alumnus and Miami native. Diaz is 6-2 at Duke this season, led the Blue Devils to the 2025 ACC title, and signed an extension through 2031. He previously served as Miami head coach (2019-2021) and Penn State defensive coordinator.
Additional candidates are being tracked by Florida State insiders, including a described "proven program-builder at every level he's touched." The search is ongoing.
