Sherrone Moore Fired as Michigan Head Coach, Detained in Alleged Assault Investigation
Michigan football was plunged into turmoil Wednesday as head coach Sherrone Moore was terminated and subsequently taken into police custody, raising serious questions about the program’s future following a tumultuous period. The swift sequence of events unfolded as investigations into both an alleged inappropriate relationship and a separate alleged assault are underway.
A Stunning Fall From Grace
As of 9:21 a.m. Thursday, Moore, 39, remained in Washtenaw County Jail, according to court records. His firing came after just two seasons leading the Wolverines, and followed an internal investigation into an alleged inappropriate relationship with a staff member. The University of Michigan terminated his contract “for cause,” forfeiting the remaining three years and over $6 million annually.
The circumstances surrounding Moore’s dismissal took a dramatic turn when Pittsfield Township police confirmed they were investigating an alleged assault. While authorities did not initially name Moore, the investigation began approximately 4:10 p.m. Wednesday – just minutes before the University of Michigan publicly announced his firing at 4:43 p.m.
Timeline of Events
The sequence of events, as pieced together from police statements and university announcements, is as follows:
- 4:10 p.m. Wednesday: Pittsfield Township police initiated an investigation into an alleged assault in the 3000 block of Ann Arbor Saline Road.
- 4:43 p.m. Wednesday: The University of Michigan publicly announced Sherrone Moore’s firing.
- 8:30 p.m. Wednesday: A “suspect” was booked into custody, according to court records.
- After 10 p.m. Wednesday: Pittsfield Township police confirmed the investigation, responding to media inquiries regarding Moore.
According to a statement released Wednesday night by Pittsfield Township Police Chief Patrick Gray, “The incident does not appear to be random in nature, and there appears to be no ongoing threat to the community.” However, authorities emphasized the ongoing nature of the investigation. “At this time, the investigation is ongoing. Given the nature of the allegations, the need to maintain the integrity of the investigation, and its current status at this time, we are prohibited from releasing additional details,” the statement continued. Details regarding potential charges remain unknown as of Thursday morning.
A Rapid Rise and Troubled Tenure
Moore’s ascent to the head coaching position was relatively swift. He initially joined the Michigan staff under Jim Harbaugh in 2018 as the tight ends coach, quickly earning a reputation as a dynamic recruiter and offensive mind. He was promoted to offensive coordinator and served as acting head coach during multiple games in the 2023 season, while Harbaugh served suspensions. Following Harbaugh’s departure to the Los Angeles Chargers in January 2024, Moore was named the full-time head coach.
However, Moore’s tenure was not without controversy. He faced a two-game suspension in the 2025 season as fallout from the Connor Stalions sign-stealing scandal continued to reverberate through the program. He was also slated to be suspended for the 2026 season opener against Western Michigan.
The situation marks another chapter of instability for the Michigan football program, leaving its future uncertain as investigations continue and the search for a new leader begins.
