Following the unexpected termination of Sherrone Moore due to his conduct, the University of Michigan is actively seeking a new head coach. Moore was taken into custody on multiple charges involving a former assistant. Now, Michigan aims to move forward by targeting a new leader.
Missouri HC Eli Drinkwitz Becomes Top Target for Michigan Coaching Vacancy
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer declined Michigan’s interest, choosing to remain at Alabama. With early options unavailable, Michigan is now pursuing coaches from prominent programs with existing contracts. Drinkwitz, credited with Missouri’s recent rise, is the latest candidate. One described athletic director Warde Manuel’s approach:
“Sources have told On3 that Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel has made clear he is willing to open up the checkbook to land the top hire. That includes buying out coaches’ contracts to lure candidates to Ann Arbor.”
With Manuel willing to use resources to eliminate the buyout as a roadblock, it places the Wolverines in a different position. Finding a good coach that is not cost-prohibitive should not become a significant issue.
Buyouts are a significant factor in hiring top coaches, as evidenced by recent examples such as Brian Kelly’s expected payout from LSU. However, these norms and their open wallet policy may help Michigan in pursuing Drinkwitz. Calum McAndrew of the Columbia Daily Tribune elaborates on Drinkwitz’s contract terms:
“If Drinkwitz elects to take another job, his buyout fee, or the liquidated damages he would owe the university, has remained essentially the same as his previous contract. If Drinkwitz accepts another job before Dec. 1, 2026, then he owes the university $5 million in liquidated damages.”
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By paying the $5 million buyout, Michigan can leave the Moore controversy behind and hire a coach without recent program ties or similar issues. Drinkwitz also does not have connections to Jim Harbaugh, offering Michigan a chance for a fresh start after recent controversies.
Drinkwitz could benefit the program in several ways. He effectively utilizes the transfer portal to strengthen Missouri’s roster, as evidenced by the signing of Ahmad Hardy, who led the Southeastern Conference in rushing yards this season. Another key transfer, quarterback Beau Pribula, contributed significantly to Missouri’s strong season before suffering an injury. Missouri finished with the 33rd-best offense in FBS, according to PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, ranking ahead of perennial prolific offensive teams.
If mutual interest exists, Michigan could move forward with Drinkwitz. How his leadership might reshape the program’s culture and bring changes remains an open consideration.
