East Lansing, Michigan, December 3, 2025
Former Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald has been appointed as the new head coach for Michigan State’s football team, signing a five-year, $30 million contract. Fitzgerald, who was previously dismissed in a hazing scandal, aims to rejuvenate the Spartans’ program after a challenging coaching period. The contract outlines a guaranteed salary with performance-based incentives, and he received a warm reception from fans during his introduction.
East Lansing, Michigan
Pat Fitzgerald Signs Five-Year, $30 Million Contract with Michigan State
Pat Fitzgerald, former Northwestern head coach and All-American linebacker, has been appointed as the new head coach of Michigan State’s football team. He signed a five-year, $30 million contract to lead the Spartans back to prominence. Fitzgerald, 51, expressed that the opportunity was “almost a no-brainer” when it was presented to him.
Contract Details and Incentives
The contract includes a $5 million guaranteed salary in the first year, with annual increases of at least $500,000 over the next four years. Additional incentives are tied to team performance: achieving seven wins in any of the first three seasons will add an extra year and $500,000 to the contract. Bonuses are also structured based on regular-season victories, with $500,000 for six wins, $1 million for seven wins, and $1.5 million for eight wins. Further bonuses are available for winning a national championship and the first Big Ten championship since 2016.
Background and Previous Tenure
Fitzgerald previously served as head coach at Northwestern for 17 years, leading the team to multiple Big Ten West championships. He was dismissed in July 2023 following a hazing scandal. Fitzgerald filed a wrongful termination lawsuit, which was settled in August after the school found no direct evidence that he was aware of the hazing.
Michigan State’s Recent Coaching Changes
Michigan State recently fired head coach Jonathan Smith after a 9-15 record over two seasons. The program has faced challenges since the retirement of Mark Dantonio, who led the team to consecutive 7-6 seasons and a .500 Big Ten record over two years.
Fan Reception and Community Support
Fitzgerald received a warm welcome from Michigan State fans, who gave him a standing ovation during his introduction at the Breslin Center, where the basketball team was playing Iowa. He addressed the crowd, encouraging them to “blow the roof off” with their support.
Looking Ahead
Fitzgerald’s appointment marks a new chapter for Michigan State football, with hopes of returning to competitive form in the Big Ten under his leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Pat Fitzgerald?
Pat Fitzgerald is a former Northwestern head coach and All-American linebacker, recently appointed as the head coach of Michigan State’s football team.
What are the terms of Fitzgerald’s contract with Michigan State?
Fitzgerald signed a five-year, $30 million contract with Michigan State, including a $5 million guaranteed salary in the first year and annual increases of at least $500,000 over the next four years. Additional performance-based incentives are also included.
What was the reason for Fitzgerald’s departure from Northwestern?
Fitzgerald was dismissed from Northwestern in July 2023 following a hazing scandal. He filed a wrongful termination lawsuit, which was settled in August after the school found no direct evidence that he was aware of the hazing.
How did Michigan State fans react to Fitzgerald’s appointment?
Michigan State fans welcomed Fitzgerald with a standing ovation during his introduction at the Breslin Center, where the basketball team was playing Iowa. He encouraged the crowd to “blow the roof off” with their support.
Key Features of Pat Fitzgerald’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | Five years |
| Total Value | $30 million |
| Guaranteed Salary in First Year | $5 million |
| Annual Salary Increase | At least $500,000 over the next four years |
| Performance-Based Incentives | Bonuses for regular-season wins, national championship, and Big Ten championship |
| Previous Tenure | 17 years as head coach at Northwestern |
| Departure from Northwestern | Dismissed in July 2023 following a hazing scandal |
| Fan Reception | Standing ovation during introduction at Breslin Center |
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