Moore's Contractual Conundrum: Wolverines' Head Coach Unsigned Despite Season Start

Despite leading Michigan to a season-opening victory, Sherrone Moore remains without a formal contract, raising questions about his long-term stability with the program.

Sherrone Moore, the newly appointed head coach of the Michigan Wolverines, has yet to sign a contract with the university, creating an unusual situation as he prepares for the team's second game of the season.

Moore was named Michigan's successor to Jim Harbaugh in January after Harbaugh departed to become head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers. However, according to USA Today, Moore has been operating without a formal contract since then, despite leading the Wolverines to a 30-10 victory over Fresno State last week.

Moore's Contractual Conundrum: Wolverines' Head Coach Unsigned Despite Season Start

Under the terms of a memorandum of understanding signed in January, Moore's appointment was "contingent upon executing a full employment agreement within 90 days." That deadline passed without a contract in place, raising questions about the coach's long-term future with the program.

Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel has provided some context to Moore's contractual status, stating that it is still being worked on. Manuel noted that the school has recently undergone a coaching transition in football and basketball, as well as dealing with NCAA matters and a change in apparel provider.

"These things take time," Manuel said in an interview with On3. "The contracts are being worked on as we speak."

Manuel expressed confidence in the school's commitment to Moore and vice versa, indicating optimism that a deal will eventually be reached.

Moore's situation is further complicated by his alleged involvement in Michigan's sign-stealing investigation by the NCAA. Moore served as acting head coach in four games last season, during which time the alleged scheme was in place.

The allegations are related to the Wolverines gaining impermissible access to opposing teams' on-field signals. Moore has been on Michigan's coaching staff since 2018, holding various positions, including tight ends coach, co-offensive coordinator, offensive line coach, and offensive coordinator.

Despite the contractual uncertainty and the NCAA investigation, Moore has guided the Wolverines to a strong start to the season, albeit with a narrow victory over Fresno State. Next up for Michigan is a home matchup against the No. 3 Texas Longhorns on "Big Noon Saturday."

The absence of a signed contract between Moore and the university remains an unconventional aspect of the coaching situation in Ann Arbor. Both Moore and the school have expressed their commitment to each other, but the formalization of that commitment through a contract remains to be completed.

As Michigan prepares for its upcoming game against Texas, the question of Moore's contract will likely continue to linger, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the early stages of the Wolverines' season.