Florida State Names Jeff Purinton Its Next Athletic Director

Florida State has selected Jeff Purinton to lead its athletics department after a search lasting several months. Purinton, a university alumnus, previously served as athletic director at Arkansas State and later became an executive vice president at Learfield. He led Learfield’s partnerships with schools in the SEC.

His appointment comes as Florida State looks for a football coach to replace Mike Norvell, who was fired last week. Norvell finished with a 41-39 record at the school. The Seminoles went 13-0 in the 2023 regular season but did not make the College Football Playoff; the team has since fallen from playoff contention to the middle of the ACC, according to the account of its recent seasons.

Purinton also faces the broader task of shaping the program’s future and building support among donors for a roster that can meet Florida State’s ambitions. The school is interested in a possible move from the ACC to the SEC or Big Ten as conference realignment continues. Purinton’s experience includes 15 years in Alabama’s athletics department, as well as his work with SEC schools at Learfield. Those relationships could be useful, but Florida State will need to establish its standing on the field. The new coach will be Purinton’s first major test as athletic director.