FSU president to miffed football fans: 'I understand your frustration'

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  Andrea AdelsonOct 27, 2026, 12:49 PM ET

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  • ACC reporter.
  • Joined ESPN.com in 2010.
  • Graduate of the University of Florida.

Florida State president Richard McCullough said Tuesday he understands fan frustration over the direction of the football program and the athletic department, saying the university is "methodically working on a plan" to position the school for sustained success.

In a letter to the community addressing concerns from their fan base, McCullough said the university has been evaluating "every aspect" of its athletics organization since firing athletic director Michael Alford last month, including defining the role, responsibilities and expectations for the next AD.

That work is nearing completion, and the search for a new athletic director will begin "soon."

Though McCullough never mentioned football coach Mike Norvell by name in the letter, fans have become increasingly upset over what they believe is administrative inaction to address the football situation.

Since winning the ACC title in 2023, Norvell is 10-21 and questions about his job security have lingered for the past 18 months. McCullough announced at the end of last season that Norvell would return for 2026 with a restructured personnel department and more resources with the hope for a turnaround. Florida State is 3-4 headed into its game against Clemson on Saturday.

In the letter, McCullough says, "Florida State should compete for championships, develop exceptional student athletes, attract outstanding coaches and personnel, and operate with the resources, leadership, and commitment necessary to succeed at the highest level of college athletics. That standard is not negotiable."

He also noted this is a "consequential moment" for Florida State.

"We are not asking you to ignore the results. We are committed to changing them. And we are not asking you to believe that everything is fine. We know it isn't," McCullough wrote, urging fans to stand behind the current Seminoles players.

"We are fully committed to building lasting success at Florida State."