Florida State puts Jeff Purinton in charge of coaching search

01 · The NewsFlorida State puts Jeff Purinton in charge of coaching search

Florida State named Jeff Purinton its athletics director on Monday, Nov. 9, putting him in charge of finding a head coach to replace Mike Norvell, who was fired Nov. 1.

“Jeff Purinton has the experience, judgment and championship pedigree to lead Florida State Athletics at this important moment,” President Richard McCullough said in a statement. “As a two-time FSU graduate and former athletics department employee, Jeff has a deep understanding of Florida State, our culture and the expectations that come with representing this university.”

Purinton returns to his alma mater after 15 years at Alabama, where he served as executive deputy director of athletics and worked in Nick Saban’s program. He also was the athletic director at Arkansas State and most recently served as Learfield Sports Properties’ executive vice president, overseeing Southeastern Conference school relationships.

Florida State has not identified candidates or provided a timeline for the coaching hire. The search will begin with the Seminoles coming off a 36-24 loss to Clemson on Oct. 31, their most recent verified game, and ahead of a Friday, Nov. 13, road game at Pittsburgh.

Purinton described the return as personal in the school’s announcement.

“Florida State is home to me in so many ways. It's where I went to school, where I got my start in this profession and where I learned from people who helped shape the way I've approached my career. I was fortunate to work with Coach Bowden, Coach Martin and Coach Saban. The lessons I learned from them about leadership, relationships and representing an institution have stayed with me,” Purinton said.

“Coming back to lead this athletics department is a tremendous honor, and a responsibility that I don't take lightly,” Purinton said.

02 · The StakesThe stakes

Purinton’s first major decision will determine whether Florida State begins restoring its national standing or remains near the bottom of the ACC. The Seminoles went 5-7 overall and 2-6 in the conference in 2025 and are 4-5 this season.

03 · The Watch ListWhat We're Watching