East Lansing, Michigan, December 2, 2025
Michigan State University has appointed Pat Fitzgerald as its new head football coach on a five-year contract, pending approval from the Board of Trustees. Fitzgerald, who previously led Northwestern, aims to restore the Spartans’ tradition amidst recent challenges and controversies. This strategic hiring follows a tumultuous period for MSU’s football program, highlighting the university’s commitment to moving forward and regaining competitiveness in the Big Ten Conference.
East Lansing, Michigan – Michigan State University Appoints Pat Fitzgerald as New Head Football Coach
East Lansing, Michigan – Michigan State University has announced the hiring of Pat Fitzgerald as the new head coach of its football program. The five-year contract, which is pending formal approval from the MSU Board of Trustees on December 12, 2025, marks Fitzgerald’s return to the Big Ten Conference after a notable tenure at Northwestern University. Fitzgerald is scheduled to be formally introduced at a press conference in East Lansing on Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Fitzgerald’s Coaching Background
At 50 years old, Fitzgerald brings extensive experience to the Spartans. He served as the head coach at Northwestern from 2006 to 2022, compiling a 110-101 record and leading the team to multiple bowl victories. His tenure included Big Ten West Division championships in 2018 and 2020. However, his time at Northwestern concluded in July 2023 following a hazing scandal, which led to his dismissal. Despite the controversy, Fitzgerald reached a financial settlement with the university and has maintained that he was unaware of the misconduct. This hiring follows the dismissal of Jonathan Smith, who ended a troubled two-year tenure with a 4-15 record after NCAA sanctions vacated five 2024 wins. Smith had previously replaced Mel Tucker, who was fired amid sexual harassment and NCAA violation allegations.
University’s Perspective
MSU Athletic Director J. Batt and President Kevin Guskiewicz expressed confidence in Fitzgerald’s fit for the program, citing his integrity, leadership, and deep ties to the Big Ten and Midwest. Fitzgerald expressed enthusiasm about restoring the program’s tradition and earning the community’s trust. He emphasized his commitment to competing at the highest level and rebuilding the program’s reputation.
Context of the Hiring
The hiring of Fitzgerald comes after a challenging period for Michigan State football. The program has faced off-field controversies and underperformance on the field, including NCAA sanctions that affected the 2024 season. The university’s decision to bring in Fitzgerald signals a desire to reset and move forward, aiming to return to competitiveness within the Big Ten Conference.
Frank Ragnow’s Attempted Return to Detroit Lions Ends Due to Injury
Detroit, Michigan – Frank Ragnow, a four-time Pro Bowl center, will not rejoin the Detroit Lions this NFL season after failing a physical due to a Grade 3 hamstring strain. Just three days after announcing he was coming out of retirement, the Lions confirmed that Ragnow’s condition will prevent him from rejoining the team. Ragnow, 29, had retired in June to prioritize his health and family after a career marked by playing through significant injuries, including a fractured throat, a torn pectoral muscle, and chronic toe issues beginning in 2021. A first-round draft pick from Arkansas, he started all 96 games he played and was named a second-team All-Pro last season. Despite his brief return attempt, the Lions praised Ragnow’s commitment and character, affirming his legacy with the team, which currently sits at 7-5 and outside the NFC playoff picture.
Ragnow’s Career and Retirement
Ragnow announced his retirement in June 2025 after seven seasons with the Lions. During his tenure, he was known for his toughness, having played through significant injuries such as a fractured throat and a torn pectoral muscle. Chronic toe injuries stemming from a 2021 plantar plate tear contributed to his initial retirement. Despite these challenges, Ragnow earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2020, 2023, and 2024, and was selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2020, making three consecutive appearances from 2022 to 2024.
Team’s Response and Future Plans
The Lions expressed disappointment over Ragnow’s inability to return but acknowledged his contributions to the team. Head coach Dan Campbell stated that the team was aware of a hamstring issue but the severity of it wasn’t clear until the physical. The Lions will now focus on adjusting their offensive line strategy for the remainder of the season, as they continue to compete for a playoff spot in the NFC North division.
Context of the Situation
Ragnow’s attempted return highlights the challenges athletes face when dealing with recurring injuries. The Lions’ decision to bring him back was seen as a potential boost to their offensive line, which has faced injuries throughout the season. However, the failure of the physical underscores the importance of player health and the complexities involved in managing athlete returns from retirement.
Conclusion
Both Michigan State University’s hiring of Pat Fitzgerald and the Detroit Lions’ experience with Frank Ragnow reflect the dynamic nature of professional sports, where decisions are influenced by a combination of performance, health, and organizational direction. As both teams move forward, they will aim to navigate these challenges to achieve success in their respective leagues.
FAQ
Who is Pat Fitzgerald?
Pat Fitzgerald is a 50-year-old football coach with extensive experience, having served as the head coach at Northwestern University from 2006 to 2022, compiling a 110-101 record and leading the team to multiple bowl victories. He was dismissed in July 2023 following a hazing scandal but reached a financial settlement with the university and maintained he was unaware of the misconduct.
What is the significance of Michigan State hiring Fitzgerald?
The hiring of Fitzgerald signifies Michigan State University’s effort to reset its football program after a period of underperformance and off-field controversies. The university aims to restore competitiveness within the Big Ten Conference and rebuild the program’s reputation.
Why did Frank Ragnow retire from the Detroit Lions?
Frank Ragnow retired in June 2025 to prioritize his health and family. Throughout his career, he played through significant injuries, including a fractured throat, a torn pectoral muscle, and chronic toe issues. These health concerns contributed to his decision to retire.
What led to Ragnow’s failed return to the Lions?
After announcing his return from retirement, Ragnow underwent a physical examination that revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain. This injury would have kept him out for the remainder of the regular season, leading to the decision that he would not rejoin the team.
How does Ragnow’s injury impact the Detroit Lions?
Ragnow’s injury is a setback for the Lions, who had hoped his return would bolster their offensive line. The team will now need to adjust its strategy and personnel to compensate for his absence as they continue to compete for a playoff spot in the NFC North division.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pat Fitzgerald’s Hiring | Appointed as Michigan State’s new head football coach on a five-year contract, pending board approval on December 12, 2025. |
| Fitzgerald’s Background | Former head coach at Northwestern University with a 110-101 record and multiple bowl victories; dismissed in July 2023 following a hazing scandal. |
| Frank Ragnow’s Retirement | Announced retirement in June 2025 after seven seasons with the Detroit Lions, citing health and family priorities. |
| Ragnow’s Attempted Return | Attempted return to the Lions was halted due to a Grade 3 hamstring strain discovered during a physical examination. |
| Impact on Detroit Lions | Ragnow’s injury necessitates adjustments to the Lions’ offensive line strategy as they aim for a playoff spot in the NFC North division. |
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