Pat Fitzgerald, who once garnered acclaim as one of the top coaches in college football, has seen a dramatic turn in his professional journey. Just a few years ago, he was acknowledged as a top-tier coach, ranking above industry giants such as Jim Harbaugh and James Franklin in the 2021 CBS Sports Coach Rankings. However, following his departure from Northwestern due to hazing allegations, which he has fervently denied, Fitzgerald has been away from coaching for three years. With the coaching landscape shifting in 2025, he is now set to re-enter the fray amid multiple job openings in Division I football.
As of now, eight jobs within the Power Four conferences are available, with Stanford’s vacancy making it nine. The resolution of Fitzgerald’s lawsuit against Northwestern in August has paved the way for a return to coaching. Reports indicate that his candidacy is gaining traction, signaling a likely return to a prestigious program.
Fitzgerald expressed feelings of vindication in a recent appearance on ESPN’s College Gameday podcast, stating, “I feel 100 percent vindicated.” He has been vocal about his innocence regarding any hazing occurrences during his tenure at Northwestern, emphasizing the personal and professional toll the allegations have taken on him and his family.
Current Job Openings
Stanford
Fitzgerald’s experience at Northwestern, where he balanced academic rigor with competitive football, makes Stanford an attractive option. The Cardinal have struggled under interim coach Frank Reich this season. With their focus on maintaining high academic standards while achieving on-field success, Fitzgerald would fit well into Stanford’s unique culture. If the general manager chooses to look for an external candidate for a full-time position, Fitzgerald will likely be at the forefront of their considerations.
UCLA
UCLA presents a different kind of challenge, one that involves maximizing limited resources. Fitzgerald excelled at Northwestern under similar conditions, managing to carve out competitive teams despite obstacles. With questions surrounding the future of the Rose Bowl and substantial travel demands in the Big Ten, the position comes with its complexities. Yet, Fitzgerald could use this opportunity to demonstrate his ability to turn around a program facing tough situations.
Penn State
If Fitzgerald were to be considered for the Penn State job, it could represent a significant turnaround in his career. His track record includes three seasons of 10-win achievements and multiple Big Ten Championship Game appearances during his time at Northwestern. Given Penn State’s higher resources and historical significance in college football, Fitzgerald could potentially lead the Nittany Lions to even greater heights, despite potential concerns stemming from past scandals at the university.
Arkansas
The Razorbacks are reportedly eyeing James Franklin, but if those efforts falter, Fitzgerald could emerge as a viable alternative. Critics may question his lack of SEC experience, but in today’s recruiting landscape, financial backing often outweighs coaching pedigree. Should Arkansas dedicate its resources to the roster while allowing Fitzgerald to assemble a capable staff, the team could thrive under his leadership.
Potential Job Opportunities
Maryland
Maryland’s early season promise has faded, posing questions about Mike Locksley’s future. Should the Terrapins seek new leadership, Fitzgerald would be a suitable candidate. He has experience within the Big Ten and a reputation for reviving programs, raising expectations for seasons with elevated win totals, which Maryland hasn’t achieved since 2003.
Michigan State
The situation at Michigan State has grown increasingly tenuous for Jonathan Smith, particularly following a six-game losing streak. Replace him too hastily could be a misstep, yet Fitzgerald’s track record of building strong defenses would certainly enhance the Spartans’ prospects for improvement. His experience can provide stability and hope for a program struggling to find its footing.
In light of Pat Fitzgerald’s tumultuous yet intriguing coaching career, his return to the field presents an opportunity for both him and the programs that choose to pursue him. As major college football continues to evolve, his strategic insights and previous successes make him an appealing option for teams seeking to rebuild and elevate their status within the competitive landscape.
