The Michigan Wolverines are undergoing significant changes under the leadership of head coach Sherrone Moore. He took over following Jim Harbaugh’s departure to the Los Angeles Chargers on Jan. 24. Moore, formerly the team’s offensive coordinator and interim head coach during the 2023 season, wasted no time in assuming his new role. 

Despite the transition, Michigan managed to secure the No. 16 recruiting class according to the 247 Sports Composite rankings on National Signing Day. As Moore continues to shape his coaching staff and plan for future recruiting efforts beyond 2025, current Michigan players have until Feb. 23 to explore transfer opportunities. With the departure of yet another coaching staff, a graver question plagues Michigan- will the Michigan star players follow suit? 

Defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale joins Jim Harbaugh

Michigan Wolverines’ defensive backs coach and key recruiter, Steve Clinkscale, has decided to depart for the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers, confirmed by a source to MLive on Saturday. Clinkscale’s departure follows that of defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, defensive line coach Mike Elston, and strength coach Ben Herbert, all of whom joined Jim Harbaugh with the Chargers.

Michael Cohen of FOX Sports identifies a much graver problem. With all the iconic names associated with the coaching staff at Michigan making a move, it is only fair to wonder if the star players at the university are likely to consider the same. “It’s fair to wonder whether some of Michigan’s star players on that side of the ball will consider making exits of their own.”

Over the past three seasons in Ann Arbor, Clinkscale played a crucial role in enhancing the passing defense, with the unit climbing from No. 27 in 2021 to No. 2 in the recent season, culminating in a national championship. His departure presents a challenge for recruiting, particularly in Ohio and Kentucky, where he had excelled in recent years. With several coaching vacancies to fill, including the departure of interim linebackers coach Rick Minter and safeties coach Jay Harbaugh, head coach Sherrone Moore faces a significant task ahead of the 2024 season.

Sherrone Moore fortifies Michigan against coaching departures 

Sherrone Moore, head coach of the Michigan Wolverines, made a significant move on February 9 by appointing seasoned NFL assistant Wink Martindale as the team’s defensive coordinator. Martindale, who previously held this position with the New York Giants from 2022 to 2023 and with the Baltimore Ravens under John Harbaugh from 2018 to 2021, brings a wealth of experience to the role.

Despite this key addition, several staff positions remain vacant, necessitating ongoing recruitment efforts. Additionally, reports suggest that Grant Newsome has been promoted to offensive line coach, highlighting the program’s commitment to nurturing emerging coaching talent. 

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As the focus shifts to the 2024 squad, the quarterback position remains a key storyline, particularly with J.J. McCarthy’s departure for the NFL Draft. Alex Orji, Jayden Denegal, Davis Warren, and Jadyn Davis are all in contention for the starting role, with Orji being a familiar name due to his previous contributions to the team.

While uncertainties persist in the coaching staff, Michigan remains actively engaged in recruiting efforts, despite recent player entries into the transfer portal. Stay tuned for the latest updates on all aspects of Michigan football.

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