Photo: Austin Hough ~ USA TODAY NETWORK
EAST LANSING ~ Max Bullough’s return to Michigan State as co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach is more than just a homecoming, it’s a strategic move by Pat Fitzgerald to reignite the Spartan defensive identity. Bullough, a standout linebacker from 2010–2013, racked up 299 tackles, two Big Ten titles and a Rose Bowl appearance during his illustrious playing career. His résumé boasts coaching stops under Nick Saban at Alabama, where he won a national title in 2020, and under Marcus Freeman at Notre Dame, helping the Fighting Irish reach the national championship game in 2024 and finish 10–2 in 2025. At just 33, Bullough brings both pedigree and promise, poised to shape a defense eager to reclaim its status in the Big Ten.
More than his statistics, Bullough embodies Spartan culture. Born into Michigan State royalty, his lineage includes grandfather Hank Bullough and father Shane, both former Spartans. His deep roots in the community and his fierce leadership as a two-time team captain reflect a coach whose passion runs deeper than schemes. For Fitzgerald, a fellow linebacker, Bullough offers a shared vision: a tough, disciplined defense anchoring success. Their relationship signals a commitment to build around a Spartan DNA that resonates with fans and players alike.
SOCIAL MEDIA
(CONTINUED) Beyond Bullough, Fitzgerald’s staff for 2026 includes several key hires aimed at restoring competitiveness. Joe Rossi remains as defensive coordinator, adding continuity and defensive expertise. James Adams returns to coach safeties, maintaining momentum from improved late-season secondary play. On the support side, Fitzgerald tapped Joel Welsh as strength and conditioning coach, bringing valuable Big Ten experience from his time at Central Michigan and Iowa. Meanwhile, the program has also hired former Arizona Cardinals defensive-line coach Winston DeLattiboudere as its new defensive-line coach to shore up the front seven.
Yet amid this flurry of defensive and support staff moves, one glaring gap looms: Michigan State still has not named an offensive coordinator. Fitzgerald is taking his time, reportedly casting a wide net and evaluating top-tier candidates such as Chip Kelly and Nick Sheridan, and assessing more than 25 potential hires. The Spartan offense, with talent like future sophomore quarterback Alessio Milivojevic and promising young skill players, needs a creative mind. As Fitzgerald builds from the defensive back forward, completing the offensive coaching staff will be the final, pivotal step toward solidifying his vision for Spartan football’s rebirth.
