Ben Herbert, the long-serving strength and conditioning coach for the Michigan Wolverines, has chosen to accept a parallel role on Jim Harbaugh’s coaching staff with the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers. Despite expressing optimism from new head coach Sherrone Moore just two days ago about retaining Herbert, the veteran coach has opted for the opportunity in the NFL.

Despite expressed optimism from new head coach Sherrone Moore just two days ago about retaining Herbert, the veteran coach has opted for the opportunity in the NFL. However, it seems that Michigan and Sherrone Moore won’t need to search far for a replacement for Ben Herbert as he departs the program.

Justin Tress replaces Ben Herbert at Michigan

Multiple sources have affirmed that Justin Tress, currently holding the position of Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning, is set to assume the full-time role recently vacated by Ben Herbert. After Herbert informed the U-M players of his departure following a Monday morning workout session, the decision to maintain continuity within the coaching transition from the Herbert coaching tree has been solidified.

Tress, aged 28, initially joined the U-M program in 2018, making the transition from Arkansas alongside Herbert. Over the years, he has progressed through the ranks, earning the position as Herbert’s trusted right-hand man. With a background as a former football player for Kent State, Tress’s journey aligns with his aspirations outlined in his Golden Flashes bio, showcasing a seamless transition to strength and conditioning coaching. His proven dedication and experience position him as a well-suited choice to assume the pivotal role left vacant by Herbert.

Ben Herbert departs from Michigan for the NFL 

A fixture in the Michigan football program since 2018, Herbert assumed additional responsibilities last season when Harbaugh appointed him as the associate head coach. His exit is considered a substantial loss for Moore and the Wolverines. Harbaugh’s past acknowledgment of Herbert as the “X-factor of our entire program” highlights the significance of his role. The departure of Herbert signifies a notable shift in Michigan’s coaching staff, underscoring the challenges of maintaining stability during coaching transitions.

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Sherrone Moore praised Ben Herbert as the best strength coach in 2023, highlighting his invaluable contributions. Interestingly, NFL strength coaches earn significantly less than their college counterparts, with Herbert being an exception, having signed a five-year, $5 million contract with Michigan just last year. Rumors swirl about Jesse Minter joining Harbaugh’s staff in Los Angeles, adding to Moore’s tasks of filling key coaching positions quickly.

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