Michigan has hired Berj Najarian, a longtime Belichick associate, to join the football program as assistant general manager, signaling a broad expansion of the front office.

Najarian previously served as chief of staff under Bill O’Brien at Boston College during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, bringing experience in operations and administration.

In his new role, Najarian will work on contracts, negotiations, and strategy amid Michigan’s evolving college sports landscape, under head coach Kyle Whittingham and the Wolverines.

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Whittingham emphasizes the importance of the GM in recruiting and program vision, noting Michigan is aiming to add one or two more staffers to complete the department.

Najarian described his responsibilities as spanning operations, team travel, facilities, and other non-X’s-and-O’s aspects of the program, rather than coaching or medical tasks.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel confirmed the hire, underscoring that the move aligns with Michigan’s push to enhance football operations and contract strategy.

The front-office expansion marks a shift from Michigan’s former single-GM model, following the February dismissal of Sean Magee.

Peloquin, a former Athletes First and Notre Dame staffer, is described as meticulous and thorough, signaling a broader rebuild of Michigan’s front office.

Najarian’s departure from the Eagles came in December 2025; he did not join Belichick’s North Carolina staff despite links.

Historical ESPN context portrays Najarian as the Patriots’ day-to-day operations point-person, coordinating across departments on off-field and personnel projects.

His role is expected to include day-to-day operations, contract work, negotiations, strategy, and liaison duties across football and non-football areas, handling off-field logistics and special projects.