Michigan State Football: Pat Fitzgerald Gets Key Players Back as 2026 Foundation Takes Shape
Pat Fitzgerald’s first offseason at the helm of Michigan State football is already off to a promising start-not just in the coaching offices, but in the locker room too. While the long-term vision in East Lansing is still coming into focus, Fitzgerald’s early moves are laying a solid foundation for 2026. And it starts with two massive wins: keeping his quarterback and his defensive captain on board.
Let’s be clear-Fitzgerald isn’t walking into a Big Ten title contender overnight. But in today’s transfer portal era, where rosters can flip fast and fortunes can change even faster, it’s not out of the question to see a quick turnaround.
Just look at what Curt Cignetti is doing at Indiana. That’s the new reality of college football, and Fitzgerald is already showing he understands the assignment.
Milivojevic and Hall: The Cornerstones
The first major domino to fall came when starting quarterback Alessio Milivojevic announced he’d be returning for the 2026 season. That move alone gave the Spartans a shot of stability and leadership on offense. Milivojevic isn’t just a returning starter-he’s the guy under center who can help install a new system, guide younger players, and give the program a sense of continuity through the coaching transition.
Then came the news that linebacker Jordan Hall, the heart and soul of the defense, would also be back. Hall’s return is arguably just as big-if not bigger-than Milivojevic’s.
He’s a tone-setter on defense, a leader in the locker room, and a player whose presence elevates everyone around him. Getting both Hall and Milivojevic back gives Fitzgerald player-coaches on both sides of the ball.
That’s the kind of leadership you can build a culture around.
Defensive Core Returns Intact
With Hall back in the fold, Michigan State’s defense is starting to look more like a unit that can compete. Fellow returners like Brady Pretzlaff, Ben Roberts, Derrick Simmons, and Aydan West give the Spartans a solid core to build around. These are experienced players who know the Big Ten grind and bring toughness and consistency.
And don’t be surprised if Hall’s decision sparks a few more returns. Veterans like Jalen Thompson, Alex VanSumeren, and Nikai Martinez could now be more inclined to run it back in East Lansing. Momentum matters in the offseason, and Michigan State is starting to build some.
Offensive Pieces Starting to Fall Into Place
On the offensive side, Milivojevic’s return could have a similar ripple effect. When your QB1 is locked in, it makes it easier for others to follow. Wide receiver Braylon Collier is already back, and players like Jayden Savoury and Evan Boyd have hinted they might not be far behind.
Now the focus shifts to getting more of the offensive supporting cast to recommit. Names like Michael Masunas, Conner Moore, Rustin Young, Stanton Ramil, Brandon Tullis, and Jace Clarizio are all key pieces that could help stabilize the offense heading into spring ball.
Coaching Staff Coming Together
Another reason for optimism? Fitzgerald isn’t wasting time assembling his staff.
He’s already filled major roles, including offensive and defensive coordinators, as well as position coaches for receivers, tight ends, safeties, linebackers, and special teams. That kind of early infrastructure is crucial-not just for recruiting and retention, but for setting the tone in the building.
With a coaching staff in place and key players choosing to stay, Fitzgerald has the early makings of a competitive team. The roster still needs work-especially through the transfer portal-but the core is taking shape. And that’s exactly what you want to see in December as a new era begins in East Lansing.
The Road Ahead
The Spartans aren’t planning a parade just yet, but the return of Milivojevic and Hall gives this program something it hasn’t had in a while: stability, leadership, and a sense of direction. Fitzgerald’s not just trying to plug holes-he’s building a foundation. And if the next wave of players follows suit, Michigan State could be a tougher out in 2026 than many expect.
The offseason is far from over, but for now, the arrow is pointing up in East Lansing.