Mike Norvell reacts to Florida State retaining him for 2026: 'I'm not going to let them down'

Mike Norvell promised he would not let down the Florida State administration for sticking by him for 2026. The school announced this week the head coach’s job would be safe and he would return next fall to try and right the Seminole ship.

“I’m not going to let them down,” Norvell said Monday. Florida State is currently 5-6 going into the final weekend.

Norvell was previously asked directly about his communication with athletic director Michael Alford. With speculation about his future intensifying at the time, Norvell made it clear that the two remain in constant dialogue as the Seminoles stumble toward the end of a disappointing 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.” 

Alford addressed the state of Seminoles football back in October, issuing a statement that reaffirmed support but also signaled that accountability would come at season’s end: “Florida State football benefits from unmatched passionate support. … The commitment to our football program is unwavering,” Alford wrote. “We have high expectations. … We share the deep disappointment when results on the field are short of that standard. 

“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.”

Instead of rebounding, the Seminoles have spiraled deeper into inconsistency. Friday’s loss in Raleigh dropped Florida State to 5-6 overall and 2-6 in ACC play, continuing a baffling pattern in which the team has struggled to string together positive performances, especially on the road. Norvell is now 0-4 against NC State and has lost six of seven in the series, further amplifying frustration.

Florida looms next in Week 14, a rivalry matchup that suddenly holds massive weight for both programs. The Gators have endured their own chaotic season, firing Billy Napier and navigating a reset under interim leadership.