Michigan AD Warde Manuel receiving $7 million buyout after stepping down as result of probe

Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel is stepping down at the end of the year following a university-led investigation into the athletic department. The university hired a law firm to conduct a probe that began last December. The findings highlight significant failures in oversight and accountability within the department. Manuel will receive a 7 million dollar buyout as part of his resignation agreement, with payment scheduled within 21 days.

The investigation centered on the culture of the Michigan athletic department under Manuel's 12-year tenure. This period included multiple high-profile controversies, such as the firing of former football coach Sherrone Moore for an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Other incidents examined in the report include the sign-stealing scandal and felony charges filed against former offensive coordinator Matt Weiss.

While the university acknowledged Manuel's leadership strengths regarding his work with student-athletes, the report also detailed critical deficiencies in reporting systems and leadership response times to internal allegations. University president Domenico Grasso stated the investigation identified serious concerns that require immediate correction.

Michigan officials emphasized that the institution faces substantial work to rebuild the department. The goal is to return the program to its status as a model for both on-field performance and off-field conduct. The university stated that while no current employees were found to have direct knowledge of the relationship involving the former football coach, the overall structural gaps remain a priority for the administration.