ANN ARBOR, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Warde Manuel’s time as the University of Michigan athletic director is likely coming to an end.

According to numerous media reports, the university is negotiating the terms of his departure.

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The timing likely coincides with the release of an investigation into the culture within U-M’s athletic department, which is expected to be made public this week.

Manuel’s tenure has been overshadowed by scandals, most recently the firing of former head football coach Sherrone Moore. The university fired Moore for cause in December 2025. The firing stemmed from a years-long relationship with staffer Paige Shiver. After she ended the relationship, Moore broke into her apartment and threatened to kill himself with her butter knives. Moore pleaded no contest to malicious use of a telecommunications device and one count of trespass

In addition, former U-M quarterbacks coach Matt Weiss is facing federal charges accusing him of hacking the online accounts of female athletes.

In 2023, another scandal emerged involving former football coach Jim Harbaugh and the football program’s sign-stealing operation involving Connor Stallions.