The 2026-27 college football coaching carousel began spinning in late October after a slow start following the record-breaking 2025 cycle that saw 32 new FBS head coaches hired, including 17 in the four power conferences. Over the past three offseasons, 93 FBS programs have changed coaches as schools navigate the evolving economics of name, image, and likeness (NIL) and revenue-sharing.
Maryland Opens Firing Season
Maryland kicked off the dismissal wave on October 21, parting ways with Mike Locksley halfway through his eighth season. Locksley finished 39-54 overall, with back-to-back 4-8 records leading to his departure. The Terrapins, now with improved NIL resources, are considering candidates such as Wake Forest's Jake Dickert and Memphis' Charles Huff, a Maryland native.
Florida State Moves On From Norvell
On November 1, Florida State fired Mike Norvell after seven seasons that included an undefeated 2023 campaign but ended with a loss to Clemson. Questions surround the program's financial standing as the Seminoles search for a new leader.
NC State Ends Doeren Era
Dave Doeren was dismissed after 14 years in Raleigh following a 31-28 loss at Stanford that dropped the Wolfpack to 1-3 in ACC play. A downturn over the past three years prompted the change. High-profile candidates include former NC State quarterback Philip Rivers, who has coached high school football in Alabama, along with Miami offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson, UNLV's Dan Mullen, and Memphis' Charles Huff.
Baylor Seeks Offensive Spark
Dave Aranda is out after seven seasons at Baylor, where he won a Big 12 title in 2021 but finished 40-40 overall and 26-32 in conference play. The program is expected to target an offensive-minded coach with Texas high school ties, with UTSA's Jeff Traylor, Texas State's GJ Kinne, and USC's Lincoln Riley among the names mentioned.
