FSU President Says AD Search Will Start Soon

McCullough said heavy department debt plus a nearly $50 million coaching buyout will complicate the timing of leadership changes.

Overview

President Richard McCullough wrote Tuesday that a methodical review of the athletics organization is nearing completion and that a formal search for a new athletics director will begin soon.
Florida State dismissed athletic director Michael Alford in mid-September and named Bruce Warwick as interim athletics director while the school defines the AD role and responsibilities.
The football team is 3-4 this season and coach Mike Norvell is widely viewed as on the hot seat, but replacing him would cost the school an estimated nearly $50 million buyout.
An Oct. 8 ESPN report cited by coverage says the athletic department carries more than $430 million in debt, a financial strain McCullough and trustees say shapes personnel and strategic choices.
University leaders say they are sequencing changes to avoid poorly timed hires, a move that could still force FSU to search for an AD and a head coach at the same time and that may affect short-term recruiting and spending decisions.