Warde Manuel, the Michigan Wolverines' athletic director, is set to step down from his post after a controversial stint, but not without perks in his $7.14 million buyout. According to reports, Manuel will receive privileges reserved for a former director, which include golfing. 

“Michigan also will pay his $82,000 in attorney fees, and he will receive the typical benefits given to a former athletic director, including tickets and golf privileges,” The Detroit News reported on July 25. 

This detail was highlighted in a report elaborating the settlement between Manuel and the University of Michigan. The AD joined in 2016 and is parting ways with the program after holding the position for nearly a decade. 

His stint oversaw one of the most controversial cases in the program's history: the Sherrone Moore case. In December 2025, he fired Moore, Michigan football’s former head coach, for being in an “inappropriate relationship” with Paige Shiver, his former staffer.

Manuel, 58, had signed a five-year contract extension that was worth $2.4 million. The Detroit News also reported that the University of Michigan will pay Manuel $7,143,346, minus tax withholding, in 21 days after he resigns. 

The school will also give him a “$108,000 and all retiree benefits, including health-plan coverage,” the report said. 

This is a result of Michigan waiving 20 years service requirement. Manuel is leaving behind a legacy of championships but is marred by off-field failures. 

Warde Manuel's tenure marked by inaction and accountability failures

On the evening of December 10, Moore was arrested at Shiver’s apartment for his violent conduct towards her. He was charged with third-degree home invasion, stalking and breaking, per a report by The Athletic.

Soon, a lawsuit filed by Former Wolverines assistant Chris Partridge accused Manuel and former school president Santa Ono for holding knowledge of Moore’s involvement with Shiver and “for years without taking action to protect the employee,” CBS Sports reported on July 13. 

Investigating this case cost the University of Michigan around $12 million in legal fees. Private law firm Jenner & Block also reviewed the athletic department’s culture, later summarized in a video release. 

“The broader cultural review has identified serious concerns that require immediate action. These include failures in accountability, structural deficiencies, weaknesses in our reporting and support systems, and concerns about retaliation,” President Domenico Grasso said. 

This report eventually led to his exit. What are your thoughts on the perks given to Manuel after his questionable time at Michigan?

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar