Florida State head coach Mike Norvell is reportedly under pressure early in the 2026 season following consecutive losing records. The team finished the 2024 season with a 2-10 record and followed that with a 5-7 record in 2025, after achieving a 13-0 regular season and an ACC championship in 2023.

Norvell's overall record at Florida State stands at 38-34 through six seasons, with a 22-26 record in ACC play. As the university aims to meet expectations from fans and boosters, inquiries into Norvell's contract and potential buyout figures have surfaced.

Prior to the 2024 season, Norvell signed an eight-year contract extension valued at over $84 million, averaging approximately $10 million annually through 2031. Following the 2024 season, a restructured agreement directed $4.5 million toward institutional revenue-sharing initiatives. His contract also includes a yearly $150,000 salary increase.

Should Florida State terminate Norvell without cause during or before the end of the 2026 season, the university would be obligated to pay him approximately $51 million, according to On3.com. If the termination occurs after the 2026 season concludes, this buyout figure is reduced to roughly $45.6 million.

Sources indicate that Norvell is owed 85% of his remaining salary and supplemental compensation. If fired after the current season, the buyout is reportedly to be paid in monthly installments of approximately $800,000 through 2031.

Florida State's 2026 schedule began with a home victory against New Mexico State, followed by a matchup against SMU. Key remaining games include a non-conference road contest at Alabama on September 19 and the regular-season finale against rival Florida on November 27 in Tallahassee.

Florida State's 2026 Football Schedule: August 29: vs. New Mexico State September 7: vs. SMU September 19: at Alabama September 26: vs. Central Arkansas October 3: vs. Virginia October 9: at Louisville October 17: at Miami October 31: vs. Clemson November 7: at Boston College November 13: at Pitt November 21: vs. NC State November 27: vs. Florida