Michigan Fires General Manager Sean Magee

New Wolverines coach Kyle Whittingham makes personnel changes after taking over program

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Michigan head coach Kyle Whittingham has parted ways with general manager Sean Magee, marking a significant shift within the program following a dramatic offseason. Magee, who was hired in March 2024, oversaw recruiting, player personnel, and NIL strategy for the Wolverines. His departure shows Whittingham's effort to reshape the program's personnel department with his own hires.

Why it matters

Magee was widely regarded as one of college football's top front-office architects, playing a key role in flipping the nation's No. 1 quarterback recruit and maintaining roster stability during the coaching transition. His dismissal signals Whittingham's intention to chart a new course for the Wolverines program.

The details

Magee arrived in Ann Arbor after serving as chief of staff for the Chicago Bears during the 2022 and 2023 seasons. He previously worked under former coach Jim Harbaugh from 2017 to 2021, overseeing football operations, budget administration, and player personnel. Magee was instrumental in building Michigan's 2023 national championship roster.

  • Magee was hired as senior associate athletic director and general manager in March 2024.
  • Whittingham was hired as Michigan's new head coach three months ago, in November 2025.

The players

Kyle Whittingham

The new head coach of the Michigan Wolverines football team, hired in November 2025 to lead the program.

Sean Magee

The former general manager of the Michigan Wolverines football team, who was dismissed by new head coach Kyle Whittingham.

Warde Manuel

The athletic director of the University of Michigan, who dismissed former head coach Sherrone Moore and hired Kyle Whittingham.

Sherrone Moore

The former head coach of the Michigan Wolverines football team, who was fired by athletic director Warde Manuel.

Bryce Underwood

The nation's No. 1 quarterback recruit in the 2025 cycle, who was flipped to Michigan by Sean Magee.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

With the transfer portal window closed and the 2026 signing class secured, Whittingham is expected to continue reshaping the Wolverines' personnel department with his own hires in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Whittingham's decision to part ways with Magee, a highly respected front-office executive, signals his intention to put his own stamp on the Michigan program and build a team that can compete for championships under his leadership.