Report: Northwestern fired Pat Fitzgerald for cause, attorney evaluating legal action

Pat Fitzgerald has been fired by Northwestern, with hazing allegations in the program coming to light. After 17 seasons as the head coach in Evanston, his tenure with the Wildcats is done. However, the process is just getting underway as a long and lengthy legal battle is expected to unfold.

According to ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg, Northwestern fired Fitzgerald for cause. Fitzgerald’s attorney, Dan Webb, claims there are “major” breaches of contract, especially after the two originally agreed on a two-week suspension.

Lawsuits between Northwestern and Fitzgerald could be on the way.

“Northwestern fired coach Pat Fitzgerald for cause, his attorney Dan Webb tells ESPN,” Rittenberg said via Twitter. “Webb is evaluating possible litigation around what he describes as “major” breaches of contract for Fitzgerald’s employment and the agreement with the school before Friday’s suspension.”

Fitzgerald released his first statement on the matter on Monday night. In there, he revealed he would be hiring Webb in order to “protect his right” within the law. All of this comes after Fitzgerald was originally suspended for two weeks to only then be fired for cause.

“Given this unexpected turn on events, I have entrusted my agent, Bryan Harlan, and legal counsel, Dan Webb from Winston & Strawn LLP, to take the necessary steps to protect my rights in accordance with the law.”

On3’s Andy Staples later explained why Fitzgerald was acquiring a big-time lawyer and the reason should not come as a surprise. There was still a considerable chunk of change remaining on the former head coach’s contract and if Northwestern fires him for cause, Fitzgerald will never see a dime.

“I’m told (Pat) Fitzgerald had about $42 million remaining on his deal,” Staples said. “So if you’re wondering why he’s hiring a big-time attorney, that’s why.”

Back in 2020, Fitzgerald signed a 10-year deal with Northwestern, scheduled to keep him around through the 2030 season. The deal came to an end about eight seasons too early due to what has been uncovered over the past week.

One thing is for sure — Fitzgerald will not be on the sidelines as the Northwestern head coach moving forward. Although, his staff, both assistant coaches and support staff, will be retained through the 2023 season.

We will likely see the University and Fitzgerald in the same room in the near future. It will likely be the court room though, as matters over his firing will be fought.