Sherrone Moore has been a part of Michigan's program as a coach in some way since 2018.
Former Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore was taken into police custody Wednesday afternoon, only hours after the university announced his dismissal for an “inappropriate relationship with a staff member.” Moore is currently being held at the Washtenaw County Jail as police continue an assault investigation.
Police Detain Sherrone Moore After Dismissal
Police dispatch records confirm that officers were called to the address of a female Michigan football staff member earlier Wednesday. Shortly after, officers were also sent to the address listed for Moore.
According to the Pittsfield Township Police Department, Moore was detained at 4:10 p.m. in Saline, a few miles outside Ann Arbor.
No formal charges have been filed, and investigators have released no further details. The assault investigation remains active.
University Confirms Violation of Policy
Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel announced Moore’s firing after a university-led probe found “credible evidence” of misconduct.
Manuel said the inappropriate relationship represented a clear violation of University policy, stressing that Michigan maintains a zero-tolerance stance on such behavior.
Moore, 39, completed his second season as head coach, leading the Wolverines to a 17–8 record, including a 9–3 finish this season. Associate head coach Biff Poggi will serve as interim coach for the upcoming Citrus Bowl against Texas on December 31.
Investigation Triggered by Anonymous Tip
A source briefed on the decision revealed the inquiry began after the school received an anonymous tip about the relationship.
Initial findings did not confirm the allegation. However, new evidence surfaced within the last 24 hours, prompting the university to immediately terminate Moore’s contract.
Most Michigan staff reportedly learned of the firing during a meeting led by Manuel. Moore was in the building Wednesday but did not attend the team meeting.
Sudden Departure Halts Coaching Plans
Moore’s dismissal shocked many inside the program. Just days earlier, he had hired veteran assistant Kerry Coombs to oversee special teams.
On Monday, Moore spoke publicly about Michigan’s 2026 signing class and the Wolverines’ bowl game preparations. At the time, he said the program had “a really good foundation” but still had “a lot to work on.”
His abrupt firing ends a turbulent two-year tenure marked by high expectations, uneven results, and swirling off-field controversy.
Moore’s Tenure: Highs, Lows, and Controversy
Moore took over after Jim Harbaugh guided Michigan to the 2023 national championship. His first season started slowly at 4–3, but momentum shifted when the Wolverines upset Ohio State 13–10 in Columbus. Michigan also secured top recruit Bryce Underwood, the No. 1 prospect in the Class of 2025.
This season fell short of expectations. Michigan lost to Oklahoma and suffered a mid-season blowout against USC. Moore’s final game was a 27–9 loss to Ohio State, ending a four-game winning streak in the rivalry.
The shadow of the Connor Stalions sign-stealing scandal loomed over Moore’s time as head coach. He served a two-game suspension this year for deleting text messages linked to Stalions and was scheduled for another suspension in the 2026 season opener.
While the NCAA did not strip Michigan of wins or its national championship, it imposed a fine that could surpass $30 million.
Contract and Termination Details
Moore was in the second year of a five-year, $5.6 million-per-year contract. The deal shielded him from termination over NCAA violations that occurred before he became head coach.
However, the contract also outlined several conditions for termination for cause, including misconduct and violations of university rules.
Those clauses ultimately determined his fate.
