Michigan football’s “secret weapon” is heading for the door.
Ben Herbert, associate head coach and director of strength and conditioning, told players Monday morning that he is planning to depart and join the staff of the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers. The move was acknowledged later in the day Monday, when Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore announced the promotion of Justin Tress as the team’s new director of strength and conditioning.
“Any time there is transition, great people make decisions that are in the best interest of their family,” Moore said in a statement. “We appreciate all that Coach Herb did for the program and wish him well in his next coaching opportunity. He developed a great staff that remains together in Ann Arbor. We know this group will flourish.”
Moore, who was introduced as the program’s 21st head football coach over the weekend, also announced Monday that he was retaining team dietitian Abigail O’Connor.
Herbert will follow former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh to Los Angeles, where Harbaugh accepted the head-coaching job of the NFL’s Chargers last week. The outgoing strength coach has not responded to a request for comment, but endorsed the decision to promote Tress in a statement on Monday.
“For the past seven years Justin and I have worked side-by-side through the highest of highs and lowest of lows,” Herbert said. “I have never once seen his commitment to me or to Michigan football waiver. Justin is an incredible representation of intelligence, consistency and commitment.
“There is absolutely not doubt in my mind that he will continue to build upon the legacy we have established with Michigan football.”
Players on the Michigan roster didn’t take too kindly to the news on Monday, reacting on social media with various emojis and thoughts.
“This one cut deep,” wrote defensive tackle Mason Graham. “Man,” added quarterback Alex Orji. Defensive back Will Johnson also acknowledged Herbert’s departure on social media.
The move is a blow to the Wolverines’ football program, where Herbert was considered a vital piece behind the scenes when it came to team building, culture and players’ physical development.
