Northwestern hazing scandal: University finalizing settlement with former football players in alleged hazing scandal
Share and Follow

EVANSTON, Ill. (WLS) — A settlement being finalized in the football hazing scandal at Northwestern University.

The university says it’s gone through a mediation process and a settlement is now being finalized with players who alleged being hazed.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The hazing scandal goes back to 2023 when former football players claimed they experienced hazing, racism and sexual abuse within Northwestern’s football program.

Former head coach Pat Fitzgerald was initially suspended when an investigation found that coaches were not aware of hazing incidents, but had opportunities to find out about them.

Days later, Northwestern’s president fired Fitzgerald, saying he should have known under his watch.

Fitzgerald, who coached the Wildcats for 17 seasons, maintains he didn’t know about the hazing and filed a multi-million dollar counter lawsuit claiming breach of contract. His lawsuit is still ongoing.

Meanwhile, the scandal led to lawsuits across multiple sports at the university.

SEE ALSO: Northwestern hazing scandal: Attorneys for ex-NU coach Pat Fitzgerald announce lawsuit

Northwestern implemented new anti-hazing policies as a result of an investigation by former U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.

Since a settlement is being worked out, Northwestern is now asking the court to push the start of the trial from later this year to 2026.

The settlement that’s being finalized, the university says, would fully resolve the students’ claims against Northwestern and Fitzgerald.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Live: Pritzker speaks on 'worst of the worst' ICE actions in Chicago

Governor Pritzker Condemns Extreme ICE Tactics in Chicago: A Live Report

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is scheduled to host a news conference on…
Erika Kirk rallies with JD Vance at emotional Turning Point event

Erika Kirk and JD Vance Ignite Passion at Unforgettable Turning Point Event

Erika Kirk, now leading Turning Point USA as CEO, made her debut…
Trump jokes Xi Jinping is 'tough negotiator' at high-stakes meeting

Trump Praises Xi Jinping’s Negotiation Skills at Crucial Diplomatic Summit

Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in person for the…
Chicago immigration operations: Appeals court blocks order requiring CBP Chief Greg Bovino to meet with judge every day on

Appeals Court Halts Daily Meeting Mandate for CBP Chief Greg Bovino in Chicago Immigration Operations Case

The U.S. Department of Justice is challenging a federal judge’s directive that…
‘I was so startled’: Five Points worker recalls break-in as city moves to improve safety

Five Points Break-In Sparks Urgent Safety Overhaul: Employee Shares Shocking Experience

After a series of burglaries, business owners are expressing relief as a…
Hurricane Melissa leaves trail of destruction across Cuba, Haiti and Jamaica

Hurricane Melissa Ravages Cuba, Haiti, and Jamaica: A Comprehensive Look at the Devastation

On Tuesday, Hurricane Melissa unleashed its fury as a Category 5 storm,…
400 days of striking later, Florida Teamsters secure union contract with Breakthru Beverage

Florida Teamsters Triumph: Securing Breakthru Beverage Union Contract After 400-Day Strike

After a persistent fight that lasted 400 days, Teamsters union members in…
Hollywood producer sentenced in women's deaths also accused of rape by hero officer who died helping others

Hollywood Producer Faces New Rape Allegations from Late Hero Officer Amid Sentencing for Women’s Deaths

A Hollywood producer was sentenced on Wednesday for his involvement in the…