Florida State is juggling a complicated coaching situation again, and the latest updates have only added to the financial strain surrounding the program. Mike Norvell’s job status has been a central storyline this season after another disappointing stretch, with many believing his tenure was nearing its end.
But firing him would have triggered one of the largest buyouts in college football, a number so high that it effectively protected his position. Last week, the Seminoles confirmed that Norvell will remain head coach through 2026, choosing financial survival over a full reset.
The questions did not stop there. Norvell was recently asked whether changes are coming to his coordinator staff after the season. He made it clear that everything is being evaluated and that improvements must follow.
“There will be a time and place for all parts of that evaluation. I do believe we’ve shown growth … but we’ve got to do a better job,” WARCHANT reported.
The pressure on the program is heavy after another underwhelming campaign, and fans expect tangible adjustments, not more patience. But Florida State faces another financial obstacle with offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn.
If the school decides to part ways with him, it will owe $4.5 million over the next two years. That figure complicates any staff overhaul Norvell may pursue, adding another expensive decision to a department already navigating a massive head-coach buyout clause.
Reminder: Gus Malzahn would be owed $4.5 million over the next two years if fired. https://t.co/b07ALRahV4
— Andy Staples (@AndyStaples) November 30, 2025
This leaves Florida State walking a tightrope. The administration wants progress, Norvell acknowledges the need for upgrades, and the roster requires direction heading into another recruiting cycle. But the program cannot simply clear house without absorbing millions in payouts.
Fans Still Want Mike Norvell to Be Fired
Fans, however, remain unconvinced. The announcement that Norvell will return in 2026 has not softened opinions across the fan base. Many believe the program needed a complete reset and think retaining Norvell delays the inevitable.
Fans have not shied away from showing their frustration over the program’s decision. Even though his job is secured for now, the fans don’t want their program to be stuck with a coach who hasn’t provided the desired result.
“Growth? They haven’t won a game on the road in two years,” a fan wrote.
Growth? They haven’t won a game on the road in two years 🤣🤣
— Txkyle (@Txkyle14) November 30, 2025
“Our growth if it was a human would be Peter Dinklage,” a fan wrote.
“If he’s only staying around bc of the buyout amount we can’t have him hiring new coordinators just to have those eventually fired when he gets canned right?” a fan wrote.
“5 wins is the standard at FSU now. Thanks Mike Norvell,” a fan wrote.
“The only thing that has grown is your bank account…,” a fan wrote.
Heading into next year, Norvell will face not only competitive pressure but the growing impatience of supporters who expect far more from Florida State.
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