Florida State head coach Mike Norvell is set to return for the 2026 season, per reporting from On3’s Pete Nakos and Chris Low. Despite mounting frustration around another underwhelming campaign, speculation that Norvell might be dismissed after 2025 has now been put to rest.
According to multiple reports, including Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, university leadership from the president to the athletic director and board members is fully aligned in its support of Norvell. Their unified stance signals confidence in his long-term vision despite recent struggles.
FSU currently sits at 5–6 after a Friday night loss to NC State, adding to the disappointment of the year. Even so, the administration believes Norvell remains the right person to guide the program forward.
Norvell was recently questioned about how often he speaks with athletic director Michael Alford. As rumors about his job status picked up, he emphasized that the two stay in regular, open communication while Florida State navigates the final stretch of a frustrating 2025 season.
“I mean, Michael and I, we talk all the time,” Norvell said after the most recent loss. “He’s there. He’s at practice every week. He comes out, he’s actively around the program like he’s always been. I understand the expectation. I understand what we have to do. And we didn’t get it done tonight. It’s constant communication like we always have been.”
In October, Alford released a statement acknowledging both the passion surrounding Florida State football and the program’s recent shortcomings. He reiterated the school’s strong commitment to the team while stressing that expectations remain high. Though supportive, he made clear that accountability would be addressed once the season concluded.
“Our comprehensive assessment of the football program will be completed at season’s end. Meanwhile, we are fully committed to helping Coach Norvell and the 2025 Seminoles strongly rebound in the coming weeks.”
Rather than stabilizing, Florida State has slipped further into inconsistency. Friday’s defeat in Raleigh left the Seminoles at 5–6 overall and 2–6 in ACC play, extending a season-long trend of uneven showings, particularly away from home. Norvell is now 0–4 against NC State and has dropped six of the last seven meetings, adding to fans’ frustrations.
Florida now awaits in Week 14, turning the rivalry game into a crucial showdown for both sides. The Gators have battled turmoil of their own, parting ways with Billy Napier and trying to regroup under interim leadership, adding even more intrigue and urgency to the matchup.
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