Longtime Coach Gus Malzahn Announces Retirement

The former Auburn head coach and Florida State OC is stepping away after 35 years on the sidelines.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Gus Malzahn, a longtime college football coach who spent the 2025 season as Florida State's offensive coordinator, announced on Monday that he is retiring after 35 years in the profession. Malzahn, 60, said he is stepping away to focus on his family and life beyond the game.

Why it matters

Malzahn was a highly successful head coach at Auburn, leading the Tigers to a national championship game appearance in 2013. His departure from Florida State's staff marks the end of an era for the veteran coach, who has been a fixture in the college game for over three decades.

The details

Malzahn spent the 2025 season as Florida State's offensive coordinator after previously serving as the head coach at Auburn and Central Florida. During his lone season in Tallahassee, the Seminoles' offense saw a dramatic turnaround, ranking 22nd nationally in points per game and leading the ACC in total and rushing offense.

  • Malzahn announced his retirement on Monday, February 3, 2026.
  • He spent the 2025 season as Florida State's offensive coordinator.

The players

Gus Malzahn

A 60-year-old former college football head coach who is retiring after 35 years in the profession, including stints leading the programs at Auburn and Central Florida.

Mike Norvell

The head coach of the Florida State Seminoles, who praised Malzahn's contributions to the program in 2025 and promoted co-offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr. to take over the offense.

Tim Harris Jr.

The new offensive coordinator at Florida State, promoted from his previous role as co-offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach.

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What they’re saying

“After 35 years, it's time for me to step away from coaching I am excited to spend more time with my family and focus on the next chapter of my life. I want to thank coach Norvell for giving me the opportunity to coach at such a prestigious program.”

— Gus Malzahn (bigtalkerradio.com)

“I want to thank coach Malzahn for his effort and dedication to our program over the last 14 months. He did a wonderful job coordinating our offense and calling plays in 2025, and he has set a strong foundation for us to continue building on in 2026 behind the coordination of Tim Harris and the multiple other assistant coaches who are returning. Coach Harris has a complete understanding of the offensive scheme, and his ability to effectively share that knowledge with his players will continue to be a benefit for our offense.”

— Mike Norvell, Florida State Head Coach (bigtalkerradio.com)

The takeaway

Gus Malzahn's retirement marks the end of an era for the veteran coach, who leaves behind a legacy of success at the college level. His decision to step away and focus on family reflects a common trend among longtime coaches seeking a new chapter in their lives.