Michigan State football: Eyeing the Spartans' post-spring depth chart
Pat Fitzgerald is leading Michigan State football through a rebuilding phase after being hired to replace Jonathan Smith, with the program aiming to regain stability following NCAA probation and poor recent performance. The post-spring depth chart reflects ongoing changes as the team prepares for summer workouts and fall camp. Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of continuous development as the Spartans gear up for his debut game against Toledo on September 4.
- ▪Pat Fitzgerald was hired in December 2025 to replace Jonathan Smith, who had a 9-15 record over two seasons.
- ▪Michigan State has not appeared in a bowl game since 2021, amid challenges stemming from the Mel Tucker scandal and subsequent NCAA probation.
- ▪The team is focusing on summer workouts as a critical phase in preparation for the 2026 season opener against Toledo.
- ▪Senior linebacker Jordan Hall, entering his fourth season, is part of his third different coaching staff.
- ▪Fitzgerald described the upcoming summer period as the 'third quarter' in preparing for his debut as Spartans head coach.
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