Michigan Staffer at Center of Sherrone Moore Scandal Received Large Pay Increase in 2025
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — In the wake of the shocking dismissal of Michigan football head coach Sherrone Moore over an “inappropriate relationship” with a staff member, public payroll records have revealed a significant salary increase for the staffer involved. According to the University of Michigan’s salary disclosure report, the individual, who is identified as an Executive Assistant to the Head Football Coach, saw her annual compensation rise from just over $58,000 in 2023 and 2024 to approximately $99,000 in the 2025 fiscal year — a staggering 70.62 percent increase.
The salary data, which has drawn considerable attention, was first highlighted by media outlets including Fox News. The dramatic raise coincides with the period during which Moore, in his second season as head coach, allegedly engaged in the relationship that ultimately led to his termination.
Michigan Athletic Director Warde Manuel announced Moore’s firing with cause on December 11, 2025, citing a university investigation that uncovered credible evidence of policy violations. “This conduct constitutes a clear violation of University policy, and U-M maintains zero tolerance for such behavior,” Manuel said in a statement.
The controversy has sent ripples through the college football community and raised questions about internal oversight within the Michigan athletics department. The university’s stringent stance aligns with broader policies enforced by institutions nationwide to uphold ethical standards in collegiate sports, as outlined by the NCAA.
Less than an hour after his termination, Moore was detained by local authorities following a call to a residence where he allegedly threatened harm to himself and others. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Moore was taken into custody and is currently held at the county jail. No formal charges have been filed yet, but he is expected to appear in court for arraignment.
The rapid developments have intensified scrutiny on the University of Michigan’s hiring and payroll practices, especially regarding the large pay raise granted to the staffer amid the ongoing investigation. Public records accessible through the university’s transparency portal show the dramatic salary increase, which far exceeds typical annual raises in comparable positions.
Observers note that such a substantial raise during a period of alleged misconduct could raise questions about institutional accountability and governance. The university has not commented on the specifics of the pay increase, citing personnel privacy and ongoing investigations.
As the Michigan Wolverines prepare for the future without Moore, the scandal underscores the challenges universities face in balancing competitive athletics programs with strict adherence to ethical standards. The incident also highlights the importance of transparency and oversight mechanisms within collegiate sports, which are increasingly being emphasized by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Department of Education.
For now, the University of Michigan continues to grapple with the fallout from the scandal, while Moore’s legal situation remains unresolved. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences that can arise when personal conduct conflicts with institutional policies and public expectations.
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