MSU Football Coordinator Departs for Cleveland Browns

Mike Bajakian leaves Michigan State to join NFL coaching staff.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 5:15pm

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Michigan State University's offensive coordinator, Mike Bajakian, is reportedly leaving the Spartans' football program to take a coaching position with the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League.

Why it matters

Bajakian's departure is a significant loss for the MSU football team, which is looking to build on a successful 2025 season under new head coach Pat Fitzgerald. His move to the NFL represents an opportunity for professional advancement, but also creates a void that the Spartans will need to fill as they prepare for the upcoming season and their annual rivalry game against the University of Michigan.

The details

According to reports, Bajakian has accepted a coaching role with the Cleveland Browns, where he will join the staff of new Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. Bajakian had served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at MSU since 2023, helping to develop the team's passing attack and guiding the Spartans to a 9-4 record last season.

  • Bajakian has been the offensive coordinator at Michigan State since 2023.
  • MSU finished the 2025 season with a 9-4 record.

The players

Mike Bajakian

The former offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Michigan State University football team.

Pat Fitzgerald

The new head coach of the Michigan State University football team, who was introduced in December 2025.

Kevin Stefanski

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns of the National Football League.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to have Mike join our staff and contribute to the continued development of our offense.”

— Kevin Stefanski, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

Michigan State will need to quickly identify and hire a new offensive coordinator to replace Bajakian and ensure a smooth transition for the team's offense heading into the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Bajakian's departure represents a significant loss for the Michigan State football program, but also an opportunity for the Spartans to bring in new talent and ideas to their coaching staff as they look to build on their success and compete with rival Michigan in the years ahead.