Brian Kelly Says Florida State Job Would Be an Honor

Brian Kelly said he would be interested in becoming Florida State’s next head coach, describing the role as an honor and privilege. The opening arose after the Seminoles fired Mike Norvell on Sunday, during a 3-5 season. Rick Stockstill is serving as interim coach.

Kelly, a former coach at LSU and Notre Dame, made his comments on SiriusXM. He noted his history with Florida State and its fan base, while also cautioning that an unemployed coach might view any job favorably. He said the program’s brand recognition remained strong, but that college football had changed, pointing to Indiana’s rise and national championship as an example.

Kelly coached LSU from 2022 through 2025, compiling a 34-14 record and winning three bowl games. The Tigers went 19-10 in SEC play under him and did not reach the College Football Playoff. LSU fired him during the 2025 season.

Before LSU, Kelly led Notre Dame from 2010 to 2021, posting a 92-39 record and taking the Fighting Irish to the playoff in 2018 and 2020. He also coached Cincinnati from 2006 to 2009, finishing 34-6, including a 12-0 season in 2009.

Florida State went 13-1 in 2023 but was left out of the playoff after quarterback Jordan Travis was injured. The Seminoles then had consecutive losing seasons in 2024 and 2025. Norvell is owed $50.3 million, ESPN reported. The university will use Stockstill as it moves forward with the coaching vacancy.