Florida State Weighs Mike Norvell’s Future as Buyout Projection Nears $58.7 Million

A termination after this season would cost approximately $58.7 million under an 85% of remaining salary clause.

Overview

Norvell’s deal runs through Dec. 31, 2031, with a buyout set at 85% of remaining compensation that declines daily.
Latest calculations vary by outlet: Yahoo Sports pegs an end-of-season buyout at about $58.7 million, Sportico previously listed $64.1 million, and Heavy citing On3 reported $54.8 million.
Florida State can satisfy any buyout in a lump sum or in equal monthly installments for the remainder of the contract term.
Norvell restructured his 2025 pay by directing $4.5 million to a university NIL initiative, with pro rata guarantees preserved in the event of a without-cause firing.
FSU is 5-6 after the NC State loss as leadership defers a decision until season’s end, and On3 has reported the total cost to change coaches and staffs could approach $100 million.