Michigan State officially hires former Northwestern coach Pat Fitzgerald as replacement for Jonathan Smith.

Michigan State University has officially named Pat Fitzgerald as the new head football coach, finalizing a five-year contract on Monday afternoon, according to Yahoo Sports reporter Ross Dellenger. Fitzgerald replaces Jonathan Smith, who was dismissed just a day earlier.

Fitzgerald, who has not coached at the college level since 2023, expressed his enthusiasm for the role. "I am honored to become the head football coach at Michigan State University," Fitzgerald said. "I want to thank President Guskiewicz and athletics director Batt for this incredible opportunity. This program has a proud history, a devoted fan base, and a dedication to excellence that goes beyond the field. What excites me most is the vision for Michigan States future. We will restore tradition, and I am eager to earn the trust of our players, alumni, and fans while competing at the highest level."

This marks Fitzgeralds return to college coaching after leaving Northwestern in 2023 amid a hazing controversy within the program. During his 17 seasons with the Wildcats, Fitzgerald achieved three 10-win campaigns and compiled a 110-101 record. He was dismissed shortly before the 2023 season after initially being suspended for two weeks following the hazing allegations. Fitzgerald later reached a confidential settlement with Northwestern after filing a wrongful termination lawsuit, maintaining that he was unaware of the hazing incidents while serving as head coach.

Northwestern struggled in Fitzgeralds final two seasons, posting a combined 4-10 record, including 1-11 in 2022. The Wildcats subsequently hired David Braun, who has led the team for the past three seasons.

Fitzgerald now takes over at Michigan State, following Smith, whose tenure included a 4-8 season in 2025 and a 9-15 overall record across two years. The Spartans have not consistently been at the top of the Big Ten during this period.

Despite his time away from coaching, Fitzgerald is familiar with the Big Ten landscape and is expected to provide strong leadership for the Spartans as they aim to return to prominence in the conference.

Author: Sophia Brooks