As Florida State coach Mike Norvell continues to navigate his own challenges in Tallahassee, he couldn’t help but smile watching one of his most trusted protégés land a marquee opportunity in the SEC.
Arkansas’ hiring of Ryan Silverfield as its next head football coach resonated deeply with Norvell, who served as both mentor and confidant to Silverfield during their time together at Memphis — and even earlier in their careers. In an exclusive one-on-one interview with Best of Arkansas Sports, Norvell spoke glowingly about the Razorbacks’ decision and the man he believes is ready to restore stability in Fayetteville.
"“We spent so many great years together,” Norvell said. “More than the work that he’s done and the things he’s been able to accomplish as a head coach, he’s just a great person.”"Mike Norvell
A Relationship Built Long Before Arkansas
Silverfield was a cornerstone of Norvell’s Memphis staff from 2016–19, serving as offensive line coach throughout Norvell’s entire tenure with the Tigers. Notably, he was the only assistant coach to remain on staff for all four seasons, a stretch that included two top-25 finishes and elevated Memphis into a nationally respected program.
Before that run, Norvell and Silverfield’s paths had already crossed before and it left a statement on the Florida State coach. When Norvell took the offensive coordinator job at Arizona State, Silverfield was still carving out his career as an analyst before a brief stint with the Detroit Lions. Once Norvell landed the Memphis head coaching job, he made Silverfield a priority hire, convincing him to take his first full-time FBS position after previously coaching at FCS Jacksonville. That decision proved pivotal for both men. and helped each other out immensely in their journeys.
Silverfield’s Rise Under Norvell’s Leadership
Silverfield’s role expanded every year under Norvell. He added run game coordinator duties in 2017, was named assistant head coach in 2018 and earned the title of deputy head coach in 2019. Along the way, he turned down interest from multiple programs, instead choosing to continue learning under Norvell’s leadership.
Norvell said Silverfield stood out as a tireless worker that was never satisfied with just good enough, an elite teacher and someone who cared deeply about details, traits he believes are essential for leading a program. That respect runs both ways.
"“I can’t hide the fact that I wouldn’t be standing here today if it weren’t for Mike Norvell,” Silverfield said last year. “I think there’s not only a mutual friendship, but a great deal of respect for one another.”"Ryan Silverfield
Why Arkansas Believes Silverfield Is the Right Choice
When Norvell departed Memphis for Florida State, Silverfield stepped into an unenviable position: succeeding a coach who had delivered one of the best runs in program history. Yet Silverfield handled the transition admirably, maintaining continuity and proving he was more than ready to lead on his own.
Now, Arkansas is betting that same leadership and attention to detail can help reverse a decade of rough sledding in Fayetteville. Norvell is among a growing list of respected voices vouching for Silverfield; not just as a coach, but as a leader capable of steadying a program in need of direction.
The time feels right for Arkansas football to regain its footing, and signs continue to point toward the Razorbacks making the right hire. Without Norvell’s influence, it’s fair to wonder whether Silverfield’s career arc would look the same or whether he’d be standing on the brink of an SEC rebuild.
As the Silverfield era begins, Razorback fans may one day either thank or question Norvell’s coaching tree. For now, the endorsement from one of college football’s most respected program builders speaks volumes about the man Arkansas is entrusting to lead it forward.