"Wouldn't be where I am without this man": J.J. McCarthy pays touching tribute to Kirk Campbell after Michigan's decision to fire him
Despite ending the regular season with a 7-5 record and clinching a bowl game appearance, the Michigan Wolverines and coach Sherrone Moore decided to fire offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell on Tuesday. Campbell spent three years with the Michigan program and this was his first as the offensive coordinator, as Moore elevated him once he was hired as the coach.
Former offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell thanked the Michigan Wolverines fanbase after being fired on a Wednesday post. On Friday, former Michigan Wolverine and current Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy reposted the message on X and thanked Campbell for helping him in his career and life.
"Wouldn't be where I am without this man. Changed my career, as well as my life. Keep being you."
Kirk Campbell was originally hired by the Michigan Wolverines ahead of the 2022 college football season as an offensive analyst and served in that position for two years before becoming the offensive coordinator.
Why did the Michigan Wolverines fire Kirk Campbell?
The Michigan Wolverines decided to fire offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell earlier this week. He spent three seasons with the program but it was the first year that he served as the offensive coordinator of the team. While the offensive talent was not up to par after players entered the NFL draft as well as transferring out of the program once coach Jim Harbaugh left the team, Campbell struggled to get much out of the offense.
The Michigan Wolverines ended the regular season with some poor offensive numbers as they were tied for 112th in points per game (22.2), 129th in passing yards per game (133.6) and 69th in rushing yards per game (160.7). Despite the lackluster offensive numbers, the Wolverines were able to win seven games and make a bowl game.
On Tuesday, coach Sherrone Moore explained his decision to fire Kirk Campbell.
"This was a decision that I felt was in the best interest of our football program. I want to thank Kirk for his hard work and dedication to the university, Michigan football and our student-athletes. I wish him well in his future coaching endeavors." h/t ESPN
For the upcoming bowl game, tight ends coach Steve Casula will serve as the Michigan Wolverines' interim offensive coordinator.