In a strategic move that signals continuity and stability, the Michigan Wolverines have secured Kerry Coombs as their special teams coordinator under new head coach Kyle Whittingham.

The 64-year-old coaching veteran, with an impressive track record from Ohio State and Cincinnati, will continue to develop Michigan's special teams unit after showcasing remarkable talent during the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl against Texas.

Coombs' retention comes as part of Whittingham's measured approach to rebuilding the coaching staff, with the new head coach planning to keep two or three staffers from the previous regime. True freshman Andrew Marsh's outstanding performance in the bowl game—generating 155 total return yards—likely influenced the decision to maintain coaching continuity.

With deep roots in collegiate football, Coombs brings a wealth of experience to the role. His coaching history includes multiple stints with Ohio State, where he served as cornerbacks coach and special teams coordinator during their 2014 national championship season. He was also recognized as Rivals' National Recruiter of the Year in 2017 and earned Big Ten Recruiter of the Year honors three separate times.

The veteran coach's journey includes diverse coaching experiences, from Ohio State to the NFL's Tennessee Titans and most recently Cincinnati, where he served as interim head coach in 2022 after Luke Fickell's departure. His academic background includes graduating from Dayton in 1983, where he won a Division III championship in 1980.

Michigan's coaching staff is nearly complete, with only defensive backs and linebackers coaching positions remaining to be filled. Coombs' continued presence suggests a commitment to maintaining the program's recruiting momentum and special teams excellence.

As the Wolverines look toward the upcoming season, Coombs represents a critical link between past success and future potential, bringing strategic insight and recruiting prowess to a program hungry for continued national recognition.