Pat Fitzgerald emphasizes the need for Michigan State football to improve strength

EAST LANSING Pat Fitzgerald revealed a small scab on his knuckle, symbolizing the journey that has shaped him both on and off the field. As Michigan States newly appointed football coach, Fitzgerald carries a storied legacy.

As a player, Fitzgerald was a relentless linebacker, twice honored as an All-American and later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. As a coach, he led Northwestern with determination, navigating one of the toughest programs in the Big Ten. Personally, he endured a challenging sabbatical after being dismissed in 2023 due to a hazing incident, stepping away from coaching for three seasons before achieving a measure of vindication through an out-of-court settlement.

During his introductory press conference at the Tom Izzo Football Building on Dec. 2, 2025, Fitzgerald expressed his deep connection with players and their families. I love and care deeply for my players and their families, he said. Losing that was devastating. It shook me to my core. The healing process has begun, and like this small cut on my hand, there will be scars, but they will remind me of growth.

Fitzgerald was officially named Michigan States 27th head coach on his 51st birthday, replacing Jonathan Smith. He prioritized connecting with the team immediately, holding a Zoom session and then meeting players in person. He also shared words of empathy for Smith, his friend and predecessor, who was dismissed after two seasons with a 9-15 record.

As I left the team room, players surrounded me, and I wanted them to know how much I respect Coach Smith, Fitzgerald said. I understand their feelings because Ive experienced being separated from my own team. I genuinely care about what theyre going through.

Contract Details

Michigan State announced Fitzgeralds five-year contract starting at $4 million per season, with $1 million in supplemental income in 2026, increasing annually to $3 million by 2030. Incentives include an additional year and $500,000 per season for achieving seven wins over the first three years. Reaching this benchmark each season could result in a total payout of $54 million over eight seasons. MSU has not achieved a seven-win season since 2021.

Because Fitzgerald has been out of coaching, no buyout was required. Smith is owed approximately $33.5 million of his remaining $39 million contract. Former coach Mel Tucker is pursuing a wrongful termination lawsuit for nearly $75 million. Should Fitzgerald leave before the contract ends, he would owe MSU amounts decreasing from $6.5 million in 2026 to $1 million in 2030. If fired by MSU, he would receive 72.5% of his remaining deal. The full contract will be finalized at the Dec. 12 MSU Board of Trustees meeting.

Leadership and Vision

This hire marks the first major decision for athletic director J Batt, who emphasized attentiveness to opportunities in the coaching market. MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz praised Batts ability to identify the right candidate. Fitzgeralds history in the Big Ten, both as a player and coach, along with his connections to basketball coach Tom Izzo and former MSU football coach Mark Dantonio, provides familiarity and credibility.

Attitude matters every second, Fitzgerald stated. Our team will play fast, tough, and disciplined football with passion and controlled aggression. Change wont happen overnight, but these are the principles well instill immediately.

Fitzgerald also understands Michigan States rivalries, particularly with Michigan, and plans to focus on team improvement. We know our rival, but our priority is ourselves. We need to get better, improve, and grow stronger, he said.

Contact Chris Solari: csolari@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @chrissolari.

Author: Sophia Brooks