The University of Michigan and athletic director Warde Manuel reach an agreement for a buyout of the remaining years on his contract, according to multiple reports. Under the terms described across outlets, Manuel will step down from his position at the end of 2026. The decision follows a period of controversy and scrutiny around Michigan’s athletic department, with one source linking the agreement to an ongoing probe, while other coverage frames it as part of a broader settlement tied to his departure. One report attributes key details of the agreement to reporting by the Detroit News, describing the buyout as part of an arrangement for Manuel to leave once his current term concludes. While the sources consistently state that a contract buyout is included and that the transition is scheduled for after the 2026 season, they do not provide consistent figures in the excerpts provided regarding the buyout amount or specific conditions. Overall, the coverage agrees that Michigan and Manuel have settled the remaining contract obligations and set a planned timeline for his exit from the athletic director role.