Norvell Eyes Next Move After FSU Exit

Mike Norvell is evaluating his next move in college football after Florida State University dismissed him on Sunday. The Seminoles lost 36-24 to Clemson, dropping their record to 3-5. Norvell is collecting a buyout that is subject to mitigation, marking the third-largest payout in the history of college football. This financial cushion gives him the leverage to be selective about his next role.

The most immediate option for Norvell is another head coaching position. His resume includes four seasons with 10 or more wins, two of which occurred at Memphis and two at Florida State. He also holds a perfect 13-0 record from the 2023 regular season. Industry sources indicate that returning to a head job is his preference, but he wants the right fit. He is not expected to pursue the vacant Sam Houston State job. North Carolina State appears unlikely to hire him, as they are focused on Philip Rivers. The Maryland and Baylor searches are still early, though Norvell could emerge as a candidate if those programs take a specific route. A return to Memphis would also be a logical step if current head coach Charles Huff moves to a Power Four school.

If a head coaching opportunity does not materialize, Norvell may accept an offensive coordinator position. Oregon and Oklahoma are currently seeking new coordinators after firing Drew Mehringer and Ben Arbuckle, respectively. Norvell shares a long-standing friendship with Oregon head coach Dan Lanning, dating back to their time on Todd Graham's Pittsburgh staff. They have worked together at three schools, including Memphis, where Lanning served as an inside linebackers coach. Both Lanning and Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables are defensive-minded, which could make the transition from head coach to assistant smoother. Norvell could lose money by taking a new job due to state income taxes reducing the buyout obligation, but staying active keeps him visible and competitive.

The final option is taking a year off to reset. Norvell could use this time to analyze what went wrong at Florida State and build a stronger coaching and personnel plan. He might visit other schools or serve as an unofficial consultant to stay involved in the sport. However, industry experts note that it is difficult to return to a head coaching role after an extended absence. Pat Fitzgerald and Bill Belichick are rare exceptions who pulled off such returns recently. Former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher has been out of coaching since 2023 and has faced difficulty finding a new role. Brian Kelly, now a CBS Sports analyst, will serve as a benchmark for the current cycle. Scott Frost previously took a year off before joining the Los Angeles Rams and later returning to UCF as head coach.

The hiring carousel is active, with several schools in the market for new offensive minds. Norvell’s financial security allows him to wait for a program that aligns with his offensive philosophy. Whether he steps into a new head role, joins a high-profile staff as a coordinator, or takes time to rebuild his strategy, his next decision will likely be closely watched by college football observers.