Jay Norvell, Colorado State

Jay Norvell is in his third season as Colorado State’s head coach, having taken over in December 2021. Previously, he led Nevada to four bowl games in five seasons, highlighted by prolific passing offenses and two MW Offensive Player of the Year honors for quarterback Carson Strong. At CSU, Norvell has focused on cultural and player development, turning a 3-9 debut season into a 5-7 campaign in 2023. That season featured a historic win over Boise State, capped by a game-winning Hail Mary.

Norvell’s recruiting efforts have yielded CSU’s highest-rated class in history, while his community impact includes founding the Grit Run, a 5K benefiting cystic fibrosis research. The first Black head coach in CSU history, Norvell has also championed diversity by creating a Minority Fellowship position on his staff. His career includes stints at Oklahoma, Texas, Nebraska, and roles with the Colts and Raiders in the NFL.