Pat Fitzgerald releases statement following his firing from Northwestern

Northwestern has a job opening, with Pat Fitzgerald being fired on Monday. Hazing allegations have swept through Evanston, originally resulting in a two-week suspension. University president Michael Schill then changed his mind, removing Fitzgerald from a job he had for 17 years.

Fitzgerald released a statement on his firing, first reflecting on his time as the Wildcats’ head coach. He said “great pride” is taken in what Northwestern has accomplished over nearly the past two decades within the football program.

“I had the privilege of serving as the Head Football Coach at Northwestern University for the past 17 years,” Fitzgerald said via ESPN’s Pete Thamel. “As a former Wildcat player who played a part in a remarkable transformation of our program, it was a tremendous honor to have the opportunity to lead the team. I take great pride in the achievements we accomplished during my tenure both on and off the field.”

Fitzgerald also laid out how he and Schill had a mutual agreement on his punishment for the hazing allegations — the two-week offseason suspension. The change of heart from the school’s president has resulted in Fitzgerald hiring a lawyer in order to “protect (his) rights.”

“I was surprised when I learned that the president of Northwestern unilaterally revoked our agreement without any prior notification and subsequently terminated my employment,” Fitzgerald said.

“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 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.”

Fitzgerald began coaching at Northwestern in 2001, beginning as the linebacker coach. He eventually worked his way up to head coach and will finish his career with a 110-101 overall record. The Wildcats made two Big Ten Championships under his guidance and appeared in 10 games.

However, his tenure will come to a tumultuous end. Apparently, his official firing on Monday was just the beginning of the journey. Some lawsuits between the two parties are expected to be on the way.