Yes, for the kids he has been recruiting for 2, 3, 4 years -- I agree, it was great that he was open and honest with them. NOW, when kids have an open window to go and search out other schools -- there is absolutely no benefit to him not being a fixture at UM in the future. NONE.
Players and parents want stability. They don't want to commit to a coach and school, not knowing if a coach will be around. If you think otherwise, you are foolish. Parents entrust a HC with their child -- that is why coaches recruit these kids for so many years to earn those parents trust. If a coach is waffling and wants to bounce -- I don't care how honest you are -- it is going to hurt the school in recruiting.