With the return of TreVeyon Henderson and the addition of Quinshon Judkins through the transfer portal, Ohio State football enthusiasts can anticipate an enhanced running game in 2024.
For quite some time, he has been recognized as the crucial element in the program, but now he is making a transition.
Ben Herbert, the head strength and conditioning coach for Michigan football, is leaving Ann Arbor to join Jim Harbaugh in Los Angeles and assume the same role with the Chargers, according to various reports.
At 44 years old, Herbert joined the University of Michigan in 2018 following a five-year tenure at Arkansas, and he dedicated the last six years to Ann Arbor. This period included the 2023 season, where he not only played a key role in guiding Michigan to its first undefeated season and national title in over 25 years but also earned the title of associate head coach.
Herbert, acknowledged by players and staff alike for fostering a “one track mind” within the team amid season-long distractions, has trained an impressive 95 NFL draft selections, including 12 first-round picks and three Heisman Trophy finalists. In February, he inked a five-year contract, making him the second $1 million strength coach in the country.
His contract, acquired through a records request by USA TODAY and the Free Press, outlined an annual salary of $1 million, consisting of a $600,000 base pay (unchanged from 2022) and a $400,000 signing bonus. Notably, the contract specifies a $1 million buyout to the university within 30 days, although it remains uncertain whether the Chargers will cover this expense.
Sherrone Moore, introduced as Michigan’s 21st head coach, stressed the urgency of finalizing the coaching staff, including discussions with Herbert. Harbaugh’s move to Los Angeles also involved securing defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, resulting in a total of $3.3 million in buyouts returning to Michigan for Harbaugh, Herbert, and Minter.
Despite the significant losses, Harbaugh previously praised Herbert as the best hire he had ever made, highlighting his essential role in player development and his widespread impact on the entire program.
