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During Moore’s introductory press conference Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel shared his thoughts on his department’s approach to NIL compared to that of other program’s like Ohio State.

Question: “When you see Ohio State shoot $13 million (on players) that has been reported…”

Warde Manuel: “We will deal with it as it goes on.”

Question: “But where do you think the NIL infrastructure (at Michigan) is? Are you willing to go to those lengths?”

Warde Manuel: I’ve talked to our donors. I’ve talked to our collectives. I’m fully supportive of them supporting our student athletes the right way. And I don’t see us buying… we don’t own any players. We don’t buy them. But we do provide resources for our student athletes. So, they have my full support. And I love NIL and what it does in support of our student athletes. However, we don’t—at least, that’s what I don’t want us to talk about—buying and inducing student athletes. We need to discuss what we can offer them for the remainder of their life, both now and in the future. In my opinion, NIL aims to teach children how to make the most of who they are for the rest of their life. Therefore, it’s not a transactional item in my opinion. Michigan and our student athletes have made a lifelong commitment to one another. In the short term, they are given access to certain resources. In the long run, they can profit financially throughout their lives as a result of Michigan, our experiences as student athletes, and the lessons we impart.”

Question: “Was that a topic that you and Sherrone discussed during the meeting?

Warde Manuel: “A little bit. A little bit. But not in great detail. I think he’s been around and knows how we have been able to support our student athletes through NIL. So, I think he’s fully comfortable with it and will keep moving. Look, the Champions Circle, other NIL collectives, they’ve done great. And like I said, I’ve been talking to our donors and talking to our fans about supporting our student athletes. We partnered with them for festivities in honor of our student athletes. However, the value of Michigan lies in the amalgamation of academics, athletics, growth and development, and other things that we can offer, that every student on our campus experiences. And we’ll consider how we may offer more as this develops and flourishes. It’s been fantastic, so. It’s been fantastic. You can also speak with our student athletes, I believe. I recall. I’m not sure who among you wrote about NIL or where it was published. Nonetheless, one of our student athletes, Blake—I believe it was Trevor—spoke about NIL, what we do, and how it has helped them. Additionally, they value our approach.