What's Happening?
Michigan State University (MSU) has appointed John McNulty as the new quarterbacks coach, following the departure of Mike Bajakian, who left for a position with the Cleveland Browns. McNulty, who began his role on February 4, 2026, brings extensive experience from both collegiate and NFL levels. Previously, he served as a senior offensive analyst at Rutgers during the 2025 season. His career includes roles as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at various institutions, including Rutgers and Boston College, as well as NFL teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Tennessee Titans. MSU's head coach, Pat Fitzgerald, emphasized McNulty's coordinating experience and quarterback background as key factors in his hiring.
McNulty's immediate focus will be on developing rising redshirt sophomore quarterback Alessio Milivojevic, who showed promise in the final games of the 2025 season.
Why It's Important?
The hiring of John McNulty is significant for Michigan State University's football program as it seeks to stabilize its coaching staff and enhance its offensive strategy. McNulty's extensive experience is expected to contribute to the development of the team's quarterbacks, particularly Alessio Milivojevic, who has the potential to become a standout player. This move is part of a broader effort by MSU to strengthen its football program under the leadership of Pat Fitzgerald. The decision to bring in a coach with both collegiate and NFL experience reflects the university's commitment to building a competitive team. The success of this appointment could impact MSU's performance in upcoming seasons, influencing recruitment and the team's standing in collegiate football.
What's Next?
John McNulty's primary task will be to focus on the development of quarterback Alessio Milivojevic, aiming to build on his promising performance from the previous season. The coaching staff will likely evaluate and refine their offensive strategies to maximize the potential of their players. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, McNulty's influence on the quarterbacks and overall offensive play will be closely monitored. The success of this coaching change could lead to further adjustments in the coaching staff or strategy, depending on the team's performance. Stakeholders, including fans and university officials, will be watching to see how these changes translate into on-field success.
