Sherrone Moore was the head football coach at the University of Michigan until his sudden termination on December 10, 2025. During his time in charge, he earned a reported salary of about USD 6.11 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. This figure placed him around the 40th-highest paid coach nationwide among his peers. His contract included a base annual salary of USD 5.5 million plus an additional retention bonus of USD 500,000 for each year he stayed with the team.

Moore had been with Michigan’s program for several years. Initially hired as a tight ends coach in 2018, he climbed the ranks and was eventually promoted to head coach after Jim Harbaugh left to coach the Los Angeles Chargers.

Buyout Terms and Legal Questions

One major question after Moore’s firing is whether he will receive the full buyout from his contract. Reports noted the buyout figure was set at around USD 13.89 million, which represented the payout Michigan would owe if the coach left voluntarily or was let go under normal circumstances. However, his termination was “for cause,” meaning he was fired due to alleged misconduct, potentially weakening his ability to collect this payment.

The University of Michigan has suggested that it might not have to pay the buyout in full, or possibly at all, because of the circumstances of his departure. Analysts point out that similar situations have ended up in court battles in the past when there is disagreement over what constitutes cause.

Details of the Conduct and Police Involvement

The reason for Moore’s firing stems from an internal university investigation that found credible evidence he had been involved in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. That investigation was significant enough for Michigan’s athletic director, Warde Manuel, to terminate him immediately.

Additionally, Moore was taken into custody by the police in connection with the situation. Local police from the Saline and Pittsfield Township departments were involved in detaining him on the day of his firing, which adds another layer of legal complexity to what had already become a high-profile employment dispute.

What This Means for Michigan Football

Michigan now faces major decisions regarding its football program. With Moore gone and uncertainty around the buyout and legal outcomes, the university will need to stabilize its coaching staff, manage public perception, and plan for the future. Michigan’s athletic director has not yet announced how much of the buyout, if any, will be paid to Moore.

This development represents more than just a coaching change. It affects recruiting, fan expectations, and internal morale. With buyout figures in the millions and possible legal battles ahead, the situation is far from resolved.