Jimbo Fisher Reportedly Seeks Return to Florida State

Large buyouts create major financial and administrative hurdles to a return after recent leadership turmoil at FSU.

Overview

Multiple outlets cited Bruce Feldman of The Athletic reporting on Sept. 18–19, 2026 that industry sources say Jimbo Fisher "really wants" the Florida State job and that school officials are "looking into the possibility."
Mike Norvell remains FSU’s head coach while the athletic department operates under interim leadership after AD Michael Alford’s firing and growing fan pressure, including viral incidents tied to Norvell’s public standing.
A return would face steep financial barriers because Texas A&M paid a reported $77.5 million buyout to Fisher in 2023 and Norvell’s midseason buyout is widely reported at roughly $48–51 million.
Fisher coached at Florida State for eight seasons, winning the 2013 national title, and has worked as a TV analyst for outlets such as the ACC Network, ESPN and SiriusXM since his 2023 departure from Texas A&M.
Given the payouts and internal upheaval, an immediate hire is unlikely and any move would require major administrative decisions and funding arrangements, so expect continued reporting rather than a near-term announcement.