Michigan Wolverines head football coach Sherrone Moore recently found himself in the spotlight over the terms of his contract, which offers unique protections related to the ongoing NCAA investigation into alleged sign-stealing by the program.
Although many assumed Moore had finalized a contract when he took over as head coach last winter, it was recently revealed that he began this season without a signed agreement in place.
However, the situation was resolved quickly once the news broke, and Moore is now officially under contract.
Interestingly, this contract includes specific provisions tied to Michigan’s ongoing sign-stealing probe.
Last year, the Michigan football program was investigated by the NCAA for allegedly stealing signs during games, leading to the issuance of a Notice of Allegations.
While Moore could face penalties, the terms of his new contract suggest he cannot be fired for this specific issue – at least based on the university’s current understanding of his involvement.
According to a report from USA Today, “The University of Michigan and football head coach Sherrone Moore have agreed to a contract under which the university appears to have agreed not to fire Moore for cause based on its current knowledge of Moore’s involvement in the alleged sign-stealing scandal centering on former football staff member Connor Stalions.”
The contract language is notably careful, emphasizing the phrase “current knowledge.”
This suggests that should new, more serious information come to light, the situation could change.
The contract explicitly states: “Notwithstanding the foregoing, a violation of the Governing Rules which occurred prior to the Effective Date, to the extent the University had actual knowledge of the facts or alleged facts that are the basis for the violation prior to the execution of this Agreement by all parties, shall not be deemed a basis for termination with cause.”
Moore’s connection to the investigation stems from reports that he allegedly deleted numerous text messages exchanged with former staffer Connor Stalions, who is at the center of the sign-stealing allegations.
While the deleted messages were eventually recovered, the content remains unclear.
As of now, the specifics of the NOA remain unknown, and the Michigan football program still has a few months to officially respond to the allegations.
Until then, Moore’s contract ensures he has some job security despite the uncertainty surrounding the investigation.
What are your thoughts on the wording of the contract?
Do you think damaging information will ultimately come forward and put Moore at risk?
Or do you think he’s innocent in the whole sign-stealing scandal and has nothing to worry about???