Kyle Whittingham Takes the Helm: Michigan Hires Veteran Coach on Five-Year Deal
In a major move for the Michigan Wolverines football program, Kyle Whittingham has been officially hired as the new head coach, signing a five-year contract. The announcement, made by the university on Friday night, brings the veteran leader from Utah to Ann Arbor. Whittingham, known for his successful 21-season tenure with the Utah Utes, will immediately begin his duties with Michigan, forgoing coaching Utah's upcoming bowl game. This hiring marks a significant transition for both programs as Michigan seeks stability and championship pedigree following a tumultuous period.
The University of Michigan has secured a seasoned leader to guide its storied football program into a new era. Kyle Whittingham, the longtime head coach of the Utah Utes, has agreed to become the next head football coach for the Michigan Wolverines, signing a five-year contract as announced by the school on Friday night. This high-profile hiring concludes a swift search and brings one of college football's most respected figures to the Big Ten.
The Contract and Immediate Transition
Financial details of the agreement, as reported by ESPN sources Pete Thamel and Dan Wetzel, reveal a significant commitment from Michigan. Whittingham's deal averages $8.2 million per year, with 75% of the contract guaranteed. He is slated to earn $8 million in salary for the 2026 season. The urgency of the transition was immediately apparent, as Whittingham informed his Utah team on Friday that he would not coach them in their upcoming SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl against Nebraska on New Year's Eve.
Following discussions with his Utah players in Las Vegas, Whittingham was scheduled to fly directly to Orlando, Florida, to begin his new role with Michigan. The Wolverines are set to face the Texas Longhorns in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31st. Sources indicated it was "paramount" for Michigan that Whittingham meet with his new team and their families in Florida to initiate his tenure without delay. Utah athletic director Mark Harlan stated the school permitted Whittingham to join Michigan "immediately" after discussions between all parties.
Whittingham's Legacy and Michigan's Future
Kyle Whittingham leaves Utah after 21 remarkable seasons, compiling a record of 177-88—a winning percentage of 66.8%. His tenure included a perfect 13-0 season in 2008, and his overall résumé positions him as a future College Football Hall of Fame inductee. In a statement released by Michigan, Whittingham acknowledged the program's stature, saying, "Michigan is synonymous with tradition and excellence -- both on the field and beyond -- and our entire program is committed to upholding those values while striving for greatness together."
The coaching transition at Utah will see defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley, who was already slated to become the full-time head coach for the 2026 season, lead the Utes in their bowl game. Michigan interim coach Biff Poggi publicly endorsed the hire, posting on social media, "Michigan Football is in GREAT hands under Kyle Whittingham !!!! Proven winner, true gentleman, tough nosed Michigan coach of days gone by."
Context of the Hiring
This move follows a period of instability for Michigan. The university fired former head coach Sherrone Moore on December 10th after "credible evidence" emerged of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. Moore was subsequently arrested and charged. Whittingham's departure from Utah was initially announced earlier in December as "stepping down," but the coach humorously indicated he was entering "the transfer portal," hinting he was not retiring. Michigan's swift and decisive action to secure a coach of Whittingham's caliber signals a clear intent to restore stability and competitive excellence to one of college football's most iconic programs.
