Pat Fitzgerald Appoints LeVar Woods to MSU’s First-Year Coaching Staff
Pat Fitzgerald, the head coach of Michigan State University (MSU) football, is finalizing his first-year coaching staff. One of his prominent hires is LeVar Woods, who will serve as the special teams coordinator. This decision follows an announcement made by Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz, confirming Woods’ transition from Iowa to MSU after the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl on December 31, where Iowa will face Vanderbilt.
LeVar Woods Joins MSU Football Staff
LeVar Woods, 47, has been a part of the Iowa football program since 2008. He has served as the special teams coordinator since 2012 and has previously coached outside linebackers and tight ends. Woods becomes a notable addition to Fitzgerald’s team, recognized for his contributions at Iowa, where he helped shape a successful program.
Woods’ Impact at Iowa
During his tenure, Woods developed several standout players. His nation-leading return man, Kaden Wetjen, significantly impacted a game against Michigan State with impressive return yards, including a touchdown. Woods also played a pivotal role in the careers of NFL talent like Cooper DeJean and punter Tory Taylor, who received the Ray Guy Award in 2024. Wetjen notably earned the Big Ten’s Rodgers-Dwight Return Specialist of the Year Award twice.
Coaching Legacy and Player Experience
LeVar Woods’ connection to Iowa dates back to his freshman year in 1998, aligning with Ferentz’s arrival as the head coach. Woods had a successful playing career, accumulating 165 tackles and being named an honorable mention to the All-Big Ten team as a senior. He later played in the NFL for teams including the Detroit Lions before returning to coaching.
Michigan State’s Coaching Updates
Alongside Woods, MSU’s coaching staff is shaping up with several key appointments. The university recently confirmed the return of Joe Rossi as defensive coordinator, and James Adams as safeties coach. Additionally, former MSU linebacker Max Bullough will take on the role of co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach.
- Coaches Announced:
- LeVar Woods – Special Teams Coordinator
- Joe Rossi – Defensive Coordinator
- James Adams – Safeties Coach
- Max Bullough – Co-Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach
- Joel Welsh – Strength and Conditioning Coach
Future Outlook for MSU Football
Fitzgerald emphasized a commitment to building a competitive team characterized by speed, toughness, and passion. He anticipates that while immediate changes may not be evident, significant progress will be made in the program’s development.
Details regarding contracts for Woods and other coaching staff members remain undisclosed. Fitzgerald’s contract includes provisions for $12.12 million to hire ten assistants, with restrictions on contract lengths for staff.
