The staff for Kyle Whittingham’s first season with Michigan football is beginning to take shape. 

After he was hired by the Wolverines on Dec. 26, Whittingham moved quickly to fill out his coordinator and assistant coach roles. At his introductory press conference, Whittingham said he anticipated “seven or eight new guys and two or three holdovers” among the 10-person countable staff. In addition, he’ll likely hire a new group of analysts (who can provide on-field coaching but cannot recruit off-campus), new strength and conditioning staff, and more. 

“I’ve still got plenty of juice left in the tank and feel energetic,” Whittingham said this week. “Michigan, it’s a top-five job, in my opinion. There’s no question it’s a top-five job. At the place I was in my career when I stepped down at Utah, it would have taken a top-five job to lure me back into it. And you’re right. Michigan: Steeped in tradition, terrific resources. It’s got a great opportunity for myself and the players.” 

We’ll keep updating this story as Kyle Whittingham rounds out his staff at Michigan for the 2026 season. Last updated: Friday, Jan. 2 at 1:30 p.m. 

Michigan football’s new offensive coordinator

Michigan’s offensive coordinator will be Jason Beck, who replaces Chip Lindsey. Beck, 45, led the Utah’s offense in 2025 as the unit finished fourth in yards per game, fifth in scoring and second in rushing. He previously worked as an OC at New Mexico (2024) and Syracuse (2023).

The program announced the news on Jan. 2: 

“Jason Beck is an exceptional leader with a proven track record as a developer of quarterbacks and a creative play caller,” said Whittingham. “He’s an innovative coach, constantly finding ways to challenge defenses through an efficient, balanced attack — whether on the ground or through the air. We’re looking forward to seeing Jason and our offensive staff mentor and inspire the young men who represent our team. We are thrilled to welcome Jason and his family to the Michigan Football family.”

“It is an honor to join Coach Whittingham at the University of Michigan,” said Beck. “I am eager to work with this exceptional offensive staff as we work together to build, develop, and support our student-athletes. My family and I are excited about this opportunity to become part of the Michigan community and the Wolverine family. Go Blue!”

Michigan football’s new defensive coordinator 

Michigan’s defensive coordinator will be Jay Hill, who replaces Wink Martindale. Hill, 50, has been BYU’s defensive coordinator and associate head coach since 2023. He took a Cougars defense that ranked 109th in total defense in his first season to 13th in total defense last fall, and 35th in 2025. BYU improved from 99th in scoring defense to 18th in 2024 and 22nd in 2025. 

This hire is official and was announced on Jan. 2: 

“Jay Hill is a great leader and one of the sharpest defensive minds in the game,” said Whittingham. “His competitive nature and commitment to excellence will help us forge a disciplined, tough defense that prides itself on physicality. Jay has the ability to consistently put players in the best position to succeed and make plays. We’re excited to welcome Jay and his family to Ann Arbor, and we are confident they’ll be a tremendous addition to our Michigan Football family.”

“It is an absolute honor for me and my family to join the Michigan Wolverines!” said Hill. “We are so excited to join Coach Whittingham, his staff and look forward to building relationships with these great players. The Michigan program is deep with history and tradition that I look forward to honoring. The opportunity to develop great young men on and off the field and ultimately win championships at Michigan is something we are dedicated to do. I can’t wait to get started! Go Blue!”

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