Northwestern Finalizes Settlement with Players over Hazing

Northwestern University is finalizing a settlement with former athletes who filed lawsuits alleging hazing within the football program, involving sexualized acts and other misconduct. Although details of the settlement are not yet public, it is expected to resolve the plaintiffs' claims against the university and former coach Pat Fitzgerald. The allegations, which span nearly two decades, prompted an investigation that found coaches, including Fitzgerald, were unaware of or had opportunities to know about the hazing. Fitzgerald, who was fired in 2023, denies any wrongdoing and has filed a $130 million lawsuit against the university for breach of contract. The university's settlement does not affect Fitzgerald's ongoing lawsuit, which remains set for trial in November. Northwestern has implemented new anti-hazing policies as a result of the scandal.