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Florida State’s Norvell Buyout Could Reach $46.7 Million

9/9/2026

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Summary

Norvell Buyout Threat

Florida State University would owe $46.7 million if it fires head coach Mike Norvell on Dec. 1, 2026.
The buyout would rank as the third-largest payout in college-football history.
Norvell signed a contract extension through 2031, raising his salary $150,000 annually to $11.05 million.
Norvell’s record fell to 39-35 after a 27-24 loss to No. 19 SMU on Sept. 7, 2026.

Summary

Norvell Buyout Risk

A power outage at Doak Campbell Stadium delayed the SMU game.
Fans labeled the loss winnable and escalated calls for Norvell’s removal.
Florida State paid Willie Taggart an $18 million buyout during the 2029 season.
Norvell’s contract guarantees an 85 percent buyout of his remaining salary if terminated.

History

Historical Context

After the Longhorns captured the 2005 national championship, the University of Texas awarded Mack Brown a ten-year contract that paid $2.81 million annually by 2007 and contained substantial buyout clauses. That landmark deal set a benchmark for coach compensation, and its legacy is evident in today’s increasingly large buyouts across college football programs.

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Norvell Buyout Threat

Florida State University would owe $46.7 million if it fires head coach Mike Norvell on Dec. 1, 2026.
The buyout would rank as the third-largest payout in college-football history.
Norvell signed a contract extension through 2031, raising his salary $150,000 annually to $11.05 million.
Norvell’s record fell to 39-35 after a 27-24 loss to No. 19 SMU on Sept. 7, 2026.

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