Mike Hart on ‘personal leave’ from Michigan football

Michigan football head coach Sherrone Moore added to his coaching staff on Monday with the addition of Wink Martindale’s right-hand man, Kevin Wilkins, as an analyst. Martindale was officially announced as defensive coordinator Monday, as was D-line coach Greg Scruggs.

It seems like the University is taking more time on background checks after some hiring snafus in recent years. But all of the assistant hires announced by Michigan football should be official too. That leaves just one question mark about the 2024 coaching staff and that’s Mike Hart, the running backs coach.

The Michigan football legend has spent the past three seasons coaching running backs. He was also the run-game coordinator for the past two seasons for the Wolverines. There hasn’t been anything public about Hart. He hasn’t confirmed that he will stay on the coaching staff but hasn’t pursued other jobs either, at least publicly.

Michigan football RB coach Mike Hart is away for “personal reasons”

On Monday night, we found out why, as Josh Henschke of Rivals reported that, “Mike Hart is away from the program for personal reasons and that’s how far I’ll get into that. His private life is his, not mine to speak on. I hope he’s able to discuss what’s happening on his own terms if he wants to.”

Been asked this a few times and wanted to do a bulk reply.

Mike Hart is away from the program for personal reasons and that’s how far I’ll get into that. His private life is his, not mine to speak on. I hope he’s able to discuss what’s happening on his own terms if he wants to. https://t.co/Ww8pBTzMHF

— Josh Henschke (@JoshHenschke) March 5, 2024

We echo those sentiments. Coach Hart has earned the right to talk about what’s going on whenever he wants to. It sounds like he’ll be returning to the program whenever he’s ready, but that’s just my best guess. Whatever is going on, whether it be a health issue or something else, you’re in our thoughts and prayers, Mike.

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