The question is Jimbo Fisher still coaching has been on the minds of many college football fans, especially those who followed his rise to prominence and sudden departure from the sidelines. As of 2025, Jimbo Fisher is not currently coaching a college football team, but he remains deeply connected to the sport through media work and has repeatedly stated that he’s open to returning when the right opportunity comes along.
Fisher’s coaching career has been filled with championship highs, intense expectations, and one of the most talked-about contract buyouts in college football history. Understanding where he stands today requires looking at his path, his current role, and what might lie ahead.
Jimbo Fisher’s Coaching Journey: From Assistant to National Champion
Jimbo Fisher’s story in college football began long before his name became nationally recognized. He started his career as an assistant coach, specializing in quarterbacks and offensive schemes. His deep knowledge of the game and his ability to develop quarterbacks quickly earned him respect in coaching circles.
His big break came at Florida State University, where he eventually became the offensive coordinator under Bobby Bowden. After Bowden’s retirement, Fisher was named head coach, beginning a highly successful era for the Seminoles.
Under his leadership, Florida State reached the pinnacle of college football:
- National Championship (2013): Fisher guided the team to a 14–0 record and a national title.
- Heisman Winner: Quarterback Jameis Winston won the Heisman Trophy under his tutelage.
- Multiple 10+ Win Seasons: FSU consistently dominated the ACC during his tenure.
His offensive creativity, recruiting success, and ability to maximize talent made him one of the most sought-after coaches in the country.
The Move to Texas A&M: Big Contract, Big Expectations
In late 2017, Fisher made a bold career move by leaving Florida State for Texas A&M University. The Aggies offered him a massive 10-year contract worth a reported $75 million — fully guaranteed. The deal signaled that Texas A&M was serious about competing at the highest level in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
During his time in College Station, Fisher brought high hopes and some memorable moments:
- Strong Recruiting Classes: He consistently landed top-tier talent, including five-star recruits who gave the program a national spotlight.
- 2020 Breakthrough: The Aggies finished with a 9–1 record and were ranked No. 4 in the country, narrowly missing the College Football Playoff.
- Program Investment: His presence coincided with significant upgrades in facilities, staffing, and overall ambition at Texas A&M.
However, sustaining that success proved difficult. Injuries to key players, offensive inconsistencies, and mounting expectations led to uneven results in subsequent seasons. By 2023, the program found itself at a crossroads.
The End of His Tenure at Texas A&M
In November 2023, Texas A&M made the shocking decision to part ways with Jimbo Fisher midway through the season. The move came after a series of underwhelming performances that didn’t match the program’s investment and expectations.
The buyout attached to his departure became one of the most discussed topics in college football. Fisher walked away with a record-setting payout, highlighting the financial stakes involved in modern college sports. His exit marked the end of his last head coaching position to date.
So, Is Jimbo Fisher Still Coaching in 2025?
The clear answer is no — Jimbo Fisher is not currently coaching a college football program. Since leaving Texas A&M, he has not accepted any head coaching or assistant positions.
However, this does not mean he’s disappeared from the sport. Fisher has remained active in the football world by taking on a media role, working as a college football analyst. This move allows him to stay involved, share his insights, and keep his football mind sharp while considering his next steps.
Importantly, Fisher has publicly expressed that he still has the desire and energy to return to coaching if the right opportunity presents itself. He has emphasized that he’s not “retired,” but rather waiting for the right situation.
Why He Hasn’t Returned to the Sidelines Yet
There are several key reasons why Fisher hasn’t jumped back into coaching immediately:
1. Timing of Opportunities
Coaching vacancies at major programs come in cycles. Since Fisher’s departure, no opportunity has perfectly aligned with his goals, experience, and expectations.
2. Financial Flexibility
His unprecedented buyout gives him the luxury of time. Unlike many coaches who must quickly take another job, Fisher can afford to wait for the ideal situation.
3. Program Fit and Reputation
Following a high-profile exit, both schools and Fisher himself likely want a good cultural and strategic fit. His next role would need to match his coaching style and offer long-term support.
4. Media Involvement
His analyst work allows him to stay relevant without the day-to-day grind of coaching. This “bridge period” keeps him close to the sport while allowing him to recharge.
What a Return to Coaching Could Look Like
Many believe it’s only a matter of time before Fisher returns to the sidelines. His experience and track record make him a strong candidate for certain types of programs:
- Power Conference Teams Seeking Rebuilding: A school looking to stabilize and rebuild could benefit from his leadership and recruiting expertise.
- Programs Wanting a Proven Winner: Fisher brings a national championship pedigree, which few active coaches can claim.
- Midseason Replacements: If a major program faces unexpected coaching changes, Fisher’s availability makes him an attractive immediate option.
- Coordinator or Consultant Role: While less likely, he could consider an offensive coordinator or special advisory position to ease back into coaching.
Given his background, it’s more probable that he’d hold out for a head coaching role at a well-resourced program.
Jimbo Fisher’s Legacy in College Football
Even though he isn’t currently coaching, Fisher’s legacy continues to shape college football discussions. His achievements at Florida State remain significant — not only for the national championship but also for how he modernized their offensive approach.
At Texas A&M, while results were mixed, his impact on recruiting and program infrastructure is undeniable. Many of the players and resources in the Aggies’ current setup are a direct result of his tenure.
His reputation is complex but impactful: a proven winner with elite credentials who faced challenges in a pressure-packed SEC environment. That duality makes him one of the more intriguing figures available in the coaching landscape.
The Broader Context: College Football Without Fisher on the Sidelines
College football has evolved rapidly in the two years since Fisher last coached. The rise of the transfer portal, NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals, and conference realignments have reshaped how programs operate.
Fisher’s time away has allowed him to observe these changes from a different perspective. His analyst role gives him insight into how successful programs are adapting — knowledge that could be valuable if he returns.
His potential comeback would generate significant media attention, not only because of his past achievements but also because fans are curious to see how his coaching style fits into this new era.
Answering the Key Question Clearly
So, is Jimbo Fisher still coaching?
No, he is not currently employed as a head coach or assistant coach for any college football team. His last coaching role ended with Texas A&M in 2023. Since then, he has worked in media, staying connected to the sport while keeping his options open for a future return.
Final Thoughts
Jimbo Fisher’s career has been a rollercoaster of championships, expectations, and high-stakes decisions. While he’s not coaching at the moment, his presence in the football world remains strong. His analyst work keeps him in the spotlight, and his coaching résumé ensures that his name will continue to surface whenever major job openings appear.
Whether he decides to return to the sidelines or continue his path in broadcasting, Fisher’s next move will be closely watched. For now, the answer to is Jimbo Fisher still coaching is no — but his story in college football may not be finished just yet.