Fitzgerald rebuilds Michigan State, securing key defensive minds and Spartan legends. The new coaching staff ignites excitement for a 2026 turnaround.
Michigan State is officially turning the page after a rough 2025 season, and new head coach Pat Fitzgerald is wasting no time. After finishing 4-8 overall and 1-8 in Big Ten play, the Spartans are ready to rebuild—and Fitzgerald is leading the charge.
With the staff now officially in place, Fitzgerald is clearly excited about the future. Here’s a look at the key hires shaping Michigan State’s 2026 turnaround.
Joe Rossi Stays as Defensive Coordinator#
Fitzgerald wasted no time keeping Joe Rossi, calling him “one of the best defensive minds in the game! Fired up to have Coach Rossi on our team! Let’s get to work!”
Rossi has been a Big Ten defensive coordinator since 2018, first at Minnesota before joining Michigan State last season. Despite early struggles due to injuries, the Spartan defense showed late-season toughness, holding top teams like Penn State, Minnesota, and Iowa to minimal points in the first three quarters. Retaining Rossi provides continuity and leadership on the defensive side.
James Adams Returns as Safeties Coach#
The Spartans also retained James Adams, Fitzgerald tweeting: “Excited to have Coach Adams on board! A great coach and recruiter with serious passion for our game!”
Adams spent three seasons at Wake Forest before joining Michigan State last year. Even with a pass rush that struggled early, Michigan State’s safeties performed well. Keeping Adams ensures the secondary continues to grow in 2026.
Max Bullough Joins as Linebackers Coach#
Michigan State alum Max Bullough, a former NFL linebacker and Spartan standout, is back in East Lansing as linebackers coach and co-DC. Fitzgerald said: “Thrilled to have Coach Bullough on our staff! A Spartan great who bleeds green, ready to lead and elevate our defense!”
Bullough brings experience from Alabama, Notre Dame, and the NFL. He was part of Notre Dame’s National Championship run last season and now returns home ready to mold the next generation of Spartan linebackers.
Joel Welsh Jr. Named Head FB Strength & Conditioning Coach#
Joel Welsh Jr. rounds out the key hires, overseeing strength and conditioning for the Spartans. Fitzgerald shared: “A huge addition to our program! Our culture starts in the weight room, and Coach Welsh will set the standard for developing Spartan student-athletes!”
Welsh comes from Central Michigan, where he spent the last few years shaping athletes’ performance. His decade-plus experience will ensure Spartan players are prepared physically—and mentally—for the challenges of the Big Ten.
Looking Ahead#
With the transfer portal opening soon, Fitzgerald’s staff gives Michigan State a solid foundation for 2026. The focus now shifts to recruiting, player development, and turning a struggling program into a Big Ten contender.