Overview
- Speaking publicly for the first time since his 2023 firing, Fitzgerald told ESPN’s College GameDay podcast he feels fully vindicated and said schools have received his candidacy well.
- Fitzgerald sued Northwestern for $130 million after his dismissal; the lawsuit was settled in August with terms undisclosed.
- Northwestern acknowledged inappropriate conduct occurred in the football program but said discovery did not establish that players reported hazing to Fitzgerald or that he condoned or directed it.
- The university praised Fitzgerald’s 26 years as player and coach and wished him well as he seeks to resume his career.
- With media expecting a wave of openings this winter, Fitzgerald is positioning himself as a candidate and emphasizing program alignment, NIL realities and player development.