Michigan AD Warde Manuel to step down at the end of calendar year after internal investigation - CBS Sports

What the report says

CBS Sports reported that University of Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel will leave his post at the end of the calendar year, following a months-long review of the culture inside the Wolverines’ athletic department. The school announced the decision Monday, July 20, 2026, and said the review found broad concerns involving leadership accountability, department structure and the way issues are reported internally.

According to CBS Sports, Michigan is not releasing the full findings from the $12 million investigation, which was conducted by Jenner & Block. In a public overview, the university said the review found failures to respond quickly and effectively to allegations of misconduct involving athletic department employees. Michigan told CBS Sports it had no plans for further public statements or to release related documents, while confirming Manuel’s planned departure. Manuel said in a statement that he was proud of the department’s achievements during his 11 years and would discuss his decision later.

The review followed turmoil connected to former football coach Sherrone Moore, whom Manuel fired in December after evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a subordinate was brought to the department, CBS Sports reported. Paige Shiver, identified as Moore’s former executive assistant, has sued the university seeking records and the investigation findings, with her attorney calling for transparency and accountability.

CBS Sports also noted other legal and investigative issues during Manuel’s tenure, including claims in a lawsuit by former Michigan staffer Chris Partridge tied to the Connor Stalions sign-stealing matter. Manuel’s time as athletic director included major competitive success across Michigan sports, but the report framed his exit as part of a broader institutional response to scrutiny over department leadership and culture.