Colorado State Fires Coach Jay Norvell After Disappointing Start

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — Colorado State University has fired head football coach Jay Norvell after a disappointing 2-5 start to the 2025 season, sources confirmed on Sunday. This decision came following a staff meeting on Sunday afternoon, where it was agreed that a change was necessary.

Norvell, who was in his fourth season with the Rams, finished his tenure with an overall record of 18-26. After improving the team from a 3-9 record in 2021 to an 8-5 finish in 2024, expectations fell short this season, compounded by a painful 31-19 loss to Hawaii on Saturday.

In hiring Norvell in December 2021 after a successful stint at Nevada, where he led the Wolf Pack to four straight bowl appearances, hopes were high for Colorado State. However, Norvell could only produce one bowl bid during his time in Fort Collins. The Rams’ performance this season has seen them ranked among the lowest in offensive and defensive statistics.

Despite a promising 2024 season, which marked the program’s best record in a decade, the Rams are now facing their seventh losing season in eight years. Unquestionably, the new Athletic Director John Weber, who was named in May 2024, is now tasked with finding Norvell’s replacement and revitalizing the program.

Norvell’s firings reflect the ongoing struggle of the Colorado State football program to meet its potential. With impressive facilities, including a new stadium opened in 2017, and a solid fan base, many industry experts believe the Rams should be performing at a higher level.

“People still believe in the upside of this job,” said a source familiar with the situation. “However, Colorado State has often not lived up to its potential, creating ongoing frustration among fans and alumni.”

As the search for a new coach begins, speculation surrounds who will fill the role. With the program’s commitments and resources, including a competitive financial offer, the Rams job may attract significant interest from prospective candidates.