Two potential replacements for fired coach Mike Norvell have strong personal ties to Florida State’s new athletic director, Jeff Purinton. A report from On3 identifies Georgia defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann and Duke head coach Manny Diaz as top names on the search board. Both men worked directly with Purinton at different points in their careers. Schumann served alongside him at Alabama from 2008 to 2015, while Diaz worked under Purinton at Florida State in the late 1990s.
After Norvell was dismissed, the Seminoles currently hold a 4-5 record for the year. Purinton took the athletic director job just days ago, according to ClutchPoints. He introduced himself to fans and reporters on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, inside the Champions Club. The former FSU graduate said the school is “home to me in so many ways.” He also noted that he was roommates with Chris Weinke during his time as a student.
The Alabama Connection
Glenn Schumann represents the first candidate with a direct link to Purinton’s past. Reporter Pete Nakos wrote that both men were at Alabama from 2008 to 2015. Purinton worked in communications and collaborated closely with Nick Saban on tasks. Schumann started as a student assistant and climbed the ranks to director of football operations. He eventually followed Kirby Smart to Georgia. This history suggests a deep understanding of the program’s operational side.
Purinton knows the value of that specific experience. The two-time graduate returned after stops at Arkansas State and Learfield. From the outset, he portrayed the position as a homecoming.
“I woke up this morning, looked out the window, could see Westcott and campus,” Purinton said. He thanked university leadership and described the opportunity in personal terms. The search for a head coach is now his top priority.
The ACC Homecoming
Manny Diaz, a current ACC head coach, is listed second. Diaz, an FSU alum, served the Seminoles during the late 1990s Bobby Bowden era. He is currently in his third season with the Duke Blue Devils. The former Miami head coach is coming off an ACC championship. His team is 6-2 this year, according to reports.
Purinton has made it clear that the new coach must fit the program’s values. “We need to do a lot of work behind the scenes,” Purinton said regarding the search. “We’re going to explore every candidate and hire the best coach for Florida State.”
He said the most important thing when looking for a head coach is “the product on the field.” Purinton also clarified what it means for the next coach to fit Florida State. He noted that a “Florida State guy” could mean a few things. The leadership wants the best person to lead the program, whether they have a degree from FSU or another school.
Next Steps on the Schedule
Florida State next plays Pittsburgh on Friday. Purinton understands the extensive effort required to fulfill expectations associated with wearing the colors.
Florida State’s selection for the 2027 head football coach role will be revealed as time passes. The athletic director has already received more than 700 text messages from former players since the hire became public. “Florida State is a special place to me,” he said. “I’ve had more than 700 text messages from former players.” His commitment is to listen carefully, communicate clearly, and make responsible decisions.
