Florida State Begins Search After Firing Mike Norvell

Florida State dismissed Mike Norvell on November 1 after the Seminoles lost 36-24 to Clemson, opening a search for the program’s next head coach. Former Florida State coach Jimbo Fisher has been making a case for a return, while Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert is also being linked to the job.

Fisher has spoken with donors about the program’s name, image and likeness resources and the roster needs that could be addressed through the transfer portal. Florida State’s interest in rehiring him has not been established. His supporters can point to five consecutive 10-win seasons, three ACC championships and a national title from 2012 to 2016.

Fisher, 60, was fired by Texas A&M in 2023, where he had a 10-year, $95 million contract. The school owed him a $76 million buyout. His past success came before NIL and the transfer portal reshaped roster-building, while Florida State would need to increase its NIL budget whoever it hires. His familiarity with the Seminoles and the prospect of a lower-cost contract could work in his favor.

Dickert has a 16-5 record over the past two seasons at Wake Forest. Deion Sanders, another former Seminoles star whose name appeared on some early candidate lists, was not included on a 21-person hot board. A Florida State insider said the program wants someone with ties to the school but is wary of baggage associated with Sanders. Sanders is 18-25 overall at Colorado and 5-14 since a nine-win season in 2024.