Pat Fitzgerald reaches settlement with Northwestern, ending hazing saga and clearing path for coaching future
Pat Fitzgerald, the longtime face of Northwestern football who spent 17 seasons guiding the program, has reached a settlement with Northwestern University to resolve his breach of contract, defamation, and related claims stemming from his sudden 2021 dismissal amid hazing allegations. The former Wildcats coach compiled a 110-101 record during a tenure that stretched over nearly two decades at a program known for its competitive grind.
Fitzgerald has maintained his innocence regarding hazing, repeatedly asserting that he neither knew about nor directed such misconduct within the team. He filed a lawsuit seeking substantial damages, including $130 million, arguing that his firing was unlawful and that the university harmed his reputation. Over the past two years, he and Northwestern engaged in lengthy discovery, with Fitzgerald acknowledging that while hazing occurred in the program, he did not have knowledge of it or approval of any improper conduct.
In a statement released through his legal team, the former coach said he had agreed to a settlement that resolves the breach of contract, defamation, and intentional infliction of emotional distress claims against Northwestern and its president. He emphasized that he had no knowledge of hazing, expressed disappointment in the misconduct that did occur, and noted that his aim throughout his 17 years at Northwestern was to run a world-class football program and protect student-athletes. Fitzgerald added that the settlement was reached to relieve his family from the ongoing stress of litigation, and he reiterated pride in Northwestern and in the many players he coached who have gone on to successful lives off the field.
Northwestern did not disclose the financial terms of the settlement but issued a brief statement wishing Fitzgerald well as he moves forward. Fitzgerald’s agent, Bryan Harlan of Excel Sports, said the agreement was lengthy but satisfactory and that the coach is eager to resume his coaching career.
What this means for Fitzgerald’s future
– The settlement removes the cloud of ongoing litigation, potentially clearing a path for Fitzgerald to pursue coaching opportunities at the college level or in the NFL.
– His 17-year tenure at Northwestern, combined with a storied brand and familiarity with the Big Ten, may keep him on the radar for openings, should the right fit arise.
– Northwestern’s response and the settlement’s anonymity on terms suggest a desire to close a difficult chapter while maintaining respect for the program’s broader emphasis on player safety and integrity.
Readers should watch the coaching landscape this offseason, as Fitzgerald’s name could surface in discussions about open head coaching roles at various programs or in roles on NFL staffs, depending on interest and fit.
Key takeaways
– Settlement ends a two-year legal dispute following Fitzgerald’s firing amid hazing allegations.
– Terms remain private; Fitzgerald maintains his innocence regarding knowledge or direction of hazing.
– The settlement could enable Fitzgerald to pursue coaching opportunities sooner rather than later, though the path remains uncertain.