Longtime Michigan Football Assistant Coach and Athletics Administrator Jerry Hanlon Passes Away
3/22/2026 7:32:00 PM | Football
ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The University of Michigan Athletics community mourns the passing of former football assistant coach Jerry Hanlon, who died Sunday (March 22) at the age of 96. Funeral arrangements are pending.
Hanlon's relationship with Michigan began in 1969 when he came to the University with famed coach Bo Schembechler and extended long after he finished his coaching career. After retiring from coaching in 1991, Hanlon worked as an assistant director of development and external relations for the athletic department.
One of the longest-tenured assistants in Michigan football history (23 seasons, 1969-91), Hanlon was one of the most versatile and trusted members of the Wolverines' coaching staff. Over the course of his career, he coached multiple positions, including defensive line, offensive line, and quarterbacks, playing a vital role in shaping Michigan's success on both sides of the ball.
Hanlon was instrumental in building the toughness, discipline, and consistency that became synonymous with Michigan football. His defensive lines were known for their physicality and relentless play, while his work with offensive linemen and quarterbacks reflected his deep understanding of the game and commitment to fundamentals. He produced 18 All-American linemen as well as All-American quarterback Jim Harbaugh and had 36 of his players drafted by NFL teams. Hanlon's entire offensive line was named the Most Valuable Player of the 1991 Gator Bowl. By the end of his career, Hanlon was regarded as the top offensive line coach in the country.
A trusted member of Bo Schembechler's staff, Hanlon contributed to numerous Big Ten championships and Rose Bowl appearances, helping define one of the most successful eras in program history.
Equally respected for his character and mentorship, Hanlon was a teacher at heart. He demanded excellence while earning the deep respect of his players and colleagues. Many who played for him carried his lessons into their own lives and careers. Hanlon's legacy lives on in the foundation he helped build and in the countless individuals he influenced throughout his career.
Before coming to Michigan, Hanlon coached three seasons at Miami University with Schembechler (1966-68).
A native of North Bend, Ohio, Hanlon began his coaching career as an assistant at his alma mater, Taylor High School, for one season. He then went to Canton Catholic High School as an assistant football coach for four seasons and spent one year as the head basketball coach. He rebuilt the football program at Youngstown Ursuline, producing a 19-5-3 record in three seasons. Hanlon worked at Cleveland St. Edward for one season before joining Jon McVay's staff at the University of Dayton for the 1965 season.
Hanlon was a 1956 graduate of Miami University, where he played halfback on the 1953, 1954 and 1955 Redskin teams that won two Mid-American Conference titles under Ara Parseghian.
Comment from Warde Manuel, Michigan's Donald R. Shepherd Director of Athletics
Michigan Athletics has lost one of the finest ambassadors and mentors our football program has ever known. Jerry devoted his life to coaching, teaching, and developing young men, watching them grow into leaders in our community and into devoted husbands and fathers. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, those he coached, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing Coach Hanlon.
