(BCSNN) — It looks like at least one off-the-field distraction in the Big Ten has been handled as Northwestern University and former head football coach Pat Fitzgerald have reached a settlement. The deal ends a two-year legal battle stemming from Fitzgerald’s firing amid a hazing scandal that rocked the athletic department. The agreement, announced Thursday, resolves Fitzgerald’s $130 million wrongful termination lawsuit, though specific terms were not disclosed.
Fitzgerald was dismissed in July 2023 following an investigation into allegations of hazing within the football program. Initially suspended for two weeks, Fitzgerald was later fired after media reports and player testimonies detailed disturbing incidents involving sexualized abuse, racial discrimination, and coercive behavior. The university concluded that while Fitzgerald may not have directly participated, he bore responsibility for failing to prevent the misconduct.
In a statement, Fitzgerald maintained he had no knowledge of hazing during his tenure and expressed disappointment that players did not report incidents to him. “I am proud to say that I ran a world-class football program at Northwestern,” Fitzgerald said. “I made every reasonable effort to prevent student misconduct, including hazing.” Northwestern echoed that sentiment, stating that discovery did not establish that Fitzgerald condoned or directed any hazing.
Fitzgerald’s tenure at Northwestern spanned 17 seasons, during which he compiled a 110–101 record, making him the winningest coach in program history. He led the Wildcats to 10 bowl appearances, two Big Ten West titles, and was widely credited with elevating the program’s national profile. However, the final years of his tenure were marked by on-field struggles, including a 1–11 finish in 2022.
The university has since implemented new anti-hazing protocols and training requirements across its athletic programs. Former defensive coordinator David Braun was promoted to head coach following Fitzgerald’s dismissal and led the Wildcats to a 6–6 record in 2024, earning Big Ten Coach of the Year honors.
While Fitzgerald has yet to return to coaching, both parties expressed a desire to move forward. “Northwestern appreciates Coach Fitzgerald’s 26 years of service as a player and coach,” the university said. “We wish him the best as he resumes his football career.” The settlement closes a turbulent chapter for Northwestern athletics, but questions about institutional oversight and accountability remain.
