Michigan State Football Announces Spring Practice Start Date

New head coach Pat Fitzgerald outlines plans for Spartans' spring session.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Michigan State football will begin its spring practice schedule on March 17, according to new head coach Pat Fitzgerald. The Spartans will not hold a traditional spring game, but instead wrap up the spring session with a "fan fest" type of event.

Why it matters

The start of spring practice marks an important transition period for the Michigan State football program as it moves forward under new leadership. Fitzgerald's plans for the spring session provide insight into his vision for the team and how he intends to build momentum heading into the 2026 season.

The details

Newly hired Michigan State head coach Pat Fitzgerald met with the media on Wednesday to discuss the upcoming spring practice schedule. Fitzgerald revealed that the Spartans will take the field for their first spring practice on March 17. Unlike previous years, Michigan State will not hold a traditional spring game. Instead, the team will wrap up the spring session with a "fan fest" type of event.

  • Michigan State will begin spring practice on March 17, 2026.
  • The Spartans' spring session will conclude with a "fan fest" event.

The players

Pat Fitzgerald

The new head coach of the Michigan State football team, hired in early December 2025 after the previous head coach was fired.

Jonathan Smith

The former head coach of the Michigan State football team, who was fired after two seasons.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Michigan State will once again not hold a traditional spring game -- a trend that has taken over across all of college football.”

— Chris Solari, Reporter (Detroit Free Press)

What’s next

Fitzgerald and the Spartans will continue preparations for the 2026 season, with the team's first spring practice scheduled for March 17.

The takeaway

The start of spring practice under new leadership marks an important transition period for the Michigan State football program as it looks to rebound from a disappointing recent stretch. Fitzgerald's plans for the spring session, including the decision not to hold a traditional spring game, provide an early glimpse into his vision for the team.