When Michigan’s head coach Jim Harbaugh departed for the Los Angeles Chargers, it was anticipated that the Wolverines would experience coaching staff changes. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh were among the expected departures, and uncertainty surrounded the status of strength and conditioning coach Ben Herbert.
However, recent news revealed that Herbert would also be joining Harbaugh in the National Football League, dealing a significant blow to Michigan’s recruiting and player development efforts.
Over the past three seasons, during which Michigan achieved notable successes, Herbert played a crucial role in establishing a culture of toughness, unity, and resilience in the team. His influence was often cited as a key factor in Michigan’s ability to attract prospects on the recruiting trail. The departure of Herbert, who contributed to Michigan’s victories against Ohio State, three Big Ten championships, and a national championship, creates a void that will be challenging to fill.
Many believed that retaining Herbert was a critical early challenge for new head coach Sherrone Moore. Despite optimism that Herbert’s impact would be more substantial at the college level than in the NFL, the strong connection between Herbert and Harbaugh proved decisive, leading to Herbert’s departure.
Michigan now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement for Herbert, and they have opted to promote Justin Tress, Herbert’s second-in-command, to the role of head strength coach.
Tress, who has been working closely with Herbert since 2018, will be entrusted with continuing the groundwork laid by his predecessor over the past three years.
