Even months after the University of Michigan dismissed Sherrone Moore at Ann Arbor, he continues to cost the university millions of dollars in a way. 

The University of Michigan has hired outside counsel to investigate the athletic department and the culture set by former football head coach Sherrone Moore. 

As per The Detroit News, the bill is up to $9.5 million. The Chicago-based law firm Jenner & Block was hired to investigate the situation.

So far, the law firm has charged the University over $3.3 million in two separate invoices of over $2 million and $1.3 million, Sarah Atwood of the Detroit News reported Friday. 

The Michigan Wolverines fired Moore as head coach on December 10, 2025. The University found "'credible evidence' he was engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a staff member," per ESPN.

Athletic director Warde Manuel requested the investigation into the athletic department, and the university’s board approved the firm to investigate. 

“The University of Michigan makes significant investments in athletics, which is a source of pride for our U-M community, and this investigation is being resourced to help strengthen our athletics program moving forward,” Paul Corliss, assistant vice president for Public Affairs and Internal Communications, wrote in a statement to The News in February. 

Sherrone Moore started as a tight ends coach and worked his way up to being the head coach after Jim Harbaugh departed for the National Football League with the Los Angeles Chargers.

During his tenure with the Wolverines, Moore was part of the team that won the 2023 National Championship as an offensive coordinator. 

“Conducting a thorough legal review of complex and high stakes issues at a college or university requires significant time, specialized expertise and resources,” Paul Corliss further added.

“In this case, the work involves two related but distinct efforts: a review concerning Sherrone Moore’s conduct and a broader assessment of the culture within the athletic department. The University is committed to ensuring both are handled with the seriousness, independence and care they require.” 

Since Kyle Whittigham has taken over at the helm and will look to rebuild this program, the Sherrone Moore case remains ongoing. 

What Did Moore’s Former Executive Assistant Say?

Paige Shivers, Moore’s former executive assistant, reported their inappropriate relationship to U-M, sparking his firing and the ongoing probe.

Her attorneys released a statement stating the University couldn't protect Shivers from “years of manipulation" by Moore.

"Institutions entrusted with the education and safety of students and employees have a fundamental duty to ensure that power is never used to exploit or silence others," said the statement released by Shiver's lawyer, per The News.

Moore's sentencing hearing is set for April 14, 2026.

What are your thoughts on this? Tell us in the comments.

Read more on the Michigan Football Community.

Written by

Samvruth Raj