Michigan State Poised to Name J Batt as Athletic Director – What This Bold Move Means for the Future of Spartans Sports

Big news is stirring up the college athletics world as Michigan State looks poised to bring in a fresh leader to steer its sports programs — J Batt, the current athletic director at Georgia Tech. Now, what’s fascinating here? Batt had just inked a contract extension through 2029 with an impressive salary nearing a million dollars a year. Yet, despite this commitment, the lure of MSU appears strong enough to make him consider a bold, unexpected move. This shakeup follows the recent exit of Alan Haller, who stepped away after a little over three years’ tenure as Spartans’ AD. ESPN’s Pete Thamel spilled the beans on this transition, hinting that things could be finalized very soon. It’s a compelling story that blends strategy, career shifts, and the relentless pace of collegiate sports management — all setting the stage for what might be a significant chapter at Michigan State. LEARN MORE

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Pete Thamel, a College Football senior writer for ESPN, tweeted: “Sources: Georgia Tech athletic director J Batt is expected to become the next athletic director at Michigan State. He’s emerged as the target, and a deal is expected to come together in the near future.”Alan Haller was forced out as MSU AD on May 1 after three-plus years in the role.

Batt is currently the AD at Georgia Tech and signed a contract extension in December through 2029 with an initial annual salary of 9,000, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.Michigan State is expected to hire J Batt as its next athletic director, according to ESPN.