Pat Fitzgerald Settles! Northwestern Lawsuit Ends: What's Next?
Northwestern University and former football coach Pat Fitzgerald have reached a settlement, concluding Fitzgerald's wrongful termination lawsuit against the university. The settlement, confirmed by sources including CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz and ESPN's Pete Thamel, brings an end to a contentious legal battle that began after Fitzgerald's firing in July 2023.
Fitzgerald, who sought $130 million in damages, filed the lawsuit in October 2023 following his dismissal. He was initially suspended for two weeks without pay after allegations of hazing within the football program surfaced. However, Northwestern later terminated his employment after two former players provided detailed accounts of the alleged hazing activities to The Daily Northwestern. Multiple former players also filed lawsuits against Fitzgerald and the university.
The terms of the settlement remain undisclosed. However, Fitzgerald's agent, Bryan Harlan of Excel Sports, stated that they are "very, very satisfied with the terms of the settlement," adding that Coach Fitzgerald is eager to resume his coaching career.
In a statement released through his attorneys, Fitzgerald maintained his lack of knowledge regarding hazing within the program. "For the past two years, I have engaged in a process of extensive fact and expert discovery, which showed what I have known and said all along—that I had no knowledge of hazing ever occurring in the Northwestern football program, and that I never directed or encouraged hazing in any way," Fitzgerald said. He expressed disappointment that the hazing occurred and wasn't reported to him.
Fitzgerald served as Northwestern's head coach for 17 years, becoming one of the longest-tenured coaches in college football. His record during that time was 110-101, with a 5-5 record in bowl games and two appearances in the Big Ten Championship Game. He also played linebacker at Northwestern from 1993-96, earning All-American honors twice.
Following Fitzgerald's firing, Northwestern promoted defensive coordinator David Braun to head coach. Braun was named the 2023 Big Ten Coach of the Year and currently holds a 12-13 record in his two seasons with the Wildcats.
What Does This Mean for Northwestern Football?
The settlement allows Northwestern to move forward from the controversy surrounding the hazing allegations. With David Braun at the helm, the Wildcats will look to build upon their recent successes. The end of the legal battle also removes a significant distraction for the university and its athletic program.
What's Next for Pat Fitzgerald?
Fitzgerald's statement and his agent's comments indicate a strong desire to return to coaching. While his future remains uncertain, this settlement clears the way for him to pursue potential opportunities in college or professional football.