Mike Norvell
Current Role: OC/Deputy HC/QBs coach, Arizona State
Quick background: Norvell was a receiver at Central Arkansas, worked there as a GA, moved on to Tulsa, where he worked under Gus Malzahn as a WRs coach. He joined up with Todd Graham at Pittsburgh in 2011, went with him to Arizona State in 2012 and has remained there running the offense ever since.
Why he might work: Norvell is a rising star in coaching. His ASU offense finished tied for 16th nationally in scoring in 2014. He’s called plays, can work with quarterbacks and has a background in the spread.
Why he might not: He’s expensive – probably too expensive for Tennessee. According to USA Today’s assistant coach database, Norvell made just over $900,000 in 2014, almost double what any current assistant makes at UT. Jones is getting a little more money to give his assistants this offseason, but, while Norvell would be somewhat of a splash hire, it’s tough to envision the Vols being willing to shell out that much money.
