BREAKING NEWS: Desmond Howard Returns to Michigan Football in Major Leadership Role
ANN ARBOR, Mich. (May 20, 2025) — In a move that is already sending shockwaves through the world of college football, the University of Michigan has announced that Desmond Howard, the legendary wide receiver and 1991 Heisman Trophy winner, is returning to the Wolverines—this time not as a player, but in a powerful new leadership capacity.
Howard, who etched his name into college football history during his standout career in Ann Arbor, has been appointed as Michigan Football’s Executive Director of Player Development and Alumni Relations, beginning in the 2025 season. The official announcement was made Tuesday morning in a joint press conference with Athletic Director Warde Manuel and new Head Coach Sherrone Moore.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” Howard said. “Michigan shaped me not just as an athlete, but as a person. To now return and help guide the next generation of Wolverines is a tremendous honor and responsibility.”
Howard’s new role will be multifaceted. He will serve as a key figure in mentoring current student-athletes, helping them navigate the challenges of college football both on and off the field. In addition, he’ll play a major role in connecting Michigan’s current team with its rich and storied alumni base, strengthening the bonds between past and present generations of Wolverines.
Warde Manuel praised the hire as a “transformational moment” for the program. “Desmond brings a level of experience, wisdom, and integrity that will immediately elevate everything we do,” said Manuel. “He’s a Michigan Man through and through, and there is no better person to lead our efforts in player development and alumni engagement.”
Howard, 54, spent the past two decades as a prominent college football analyst for ESPN’s “College GameDay,” becoming a fan favorite for his insights, charisma, and deep knowledge of the game. Despite his success in broadcasting, he has often spoken about his desire to one day return to his alma mater in a meaningful capacity.
That day has now arrived.
“This isn’t just about football,” said Howard. “It’s about developing young men for life. It’s about accountability, character, education—and yes, winning championships. We’re building something special here.”
Howard’s playing career remains one of the most iconic in college football history. In 1991, he won the Heisman Trophy after a jaw-dropping season that included 985 receiving yards, 19 touchdowns, and one of the most famous moments in sports history: his Heisman pose in the end zone against Ohio State.
He went on to play in the NFL for 11 seasons, most notably winning Super Bowl MVP honors with the Green Bay Packers in 1997.
Current and former players have expressed overwhelming support for the move.
“I can’t think of a better person to mentor these young guys,” tweeted former Michigan quarterback Devin Gardner. “Des is the heart of Michigan football.”
As the Wolverines look to maintain their national prominence following their 2023 national championship and 2024 playoff run, the addition of a legend like Howard is seen as a bold and strategic move to keep the program at the forefront of college football.
The Wolverines kick off their 2025 season this September, but the buzz surrounding Desmond Howard’s return ensures that excitement in Ann Arbor is already sky-high.
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