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Michigan Regents Meet Thursday to Review Athletic Probe

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Traverse City, Mich. University of Michigan regents are scheduled to meet Thursday to review findings from a $12 million Jenner & Block investigation into the culture of Wolverines athletics following the Sherrone Moore scandal; the review could determine whether Athletic Director Warde Manuel, who has led the department since January 2016, will remain in his role. This week the university declined to release materials from the probe and issued limited comment, while reports say Manuel, 58, is weighing options including retirement; he signed a five-year contract extension in December 2024 that runs through June 30, 2030, with a reported $1.9 million base salary and a potential 36-month severance if terminated without cause, and a related federal lawsuit naming Manuel has been filed.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2021–2023: Sign-stealing operation took place within the football program.
2. December 2024: Warde Manuel signed a five-year contract extension through June 30, 2030.
3. Approximately seven months ago: The university launched an independent investigation after Coach Sherrone Moore was fired.
4. Jenner & Block were retained to conduct a reported $12 million review of the athletic department.
5. This week/Thursday: Regents scheduled to meet in Traverse City to consider the investigation findings.

News Intelligence

The outcome of this meeting could impact the future of Michigan Wolverines athletics. If you're a fan, it's worth keeping an eye on the decision about Athletic Director Warde Manuel. His leadership has shaped the program for years.