Michigan Fires Linebackers Coach Chris Partridge Amid Controversy
The University of Michigan has announced the termination of linebackers coach Chris Partridge, effective immediately, according to a statement released on Friday morning. This move comes amid an ongoing controversy involving allegations of an illegal sign-stealing scheme orchestrated by recruiting analyst Connor Stalions, who resigned on November 3. The NCAA is currently investigating the matter, and Partridge’s departure is another development in the unfolding situation.
Rick Minter has been appointed as the interim linebackers coach to fill the void left by Partridge’s departure. The announcement explained, “Effective today, Chris Partridge has been relieved of his duties as a member of the Michigan Football staff. Rick Minter will serve as the team’s linebackers coach.”
Partridge, who had a salary of $500,000 for the current season, is the second staff member to leave their position in recent weeks due to the ongoing investigation. The university has not provided specific details regarding the reasons for Partridge’s termination, citing employee privacy laws. However, reports from Yahoo Sports suggest that he “allegedly participated in the destruction of evidence on a computer after the scandal broke,” according to undisclosed sources. Notably, Partridge is not currently accused of having knowledge of Stalions’ advanced scouting activities.
The original announcement was made at 11:20 a.m. ET, and shortly after, the university issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to due process and cooperation with the NCAA’s investigation. Kurt Svoboda, the associate athletic director, stated, “From the outset, our focus has been on seeking due process and allowing the NCAA to conduct a fair and deliberate investigation. Although the Big Ten has closed its investigation, we are continuing to cooperate with the NCAA as it moves forward with its ongoing investigation. Consistent with our commitment to integrity, we will continue to take the appropriate actions, including disciplinary measures, based on information we obtain.”
Partridge had been with Michigan’s coaching staff for the past five years. He returned on February 8 for his second tenure with the Wolverines when he was hired to coach the linebackers. Previously, he served as the team’s special teams coordinator from 2016 to 2019 before becoming the defensive coordinator at Mississippi for the next three seasons.
In a separate development, head coach Jim Harbaugh has been suspended for the final three games of the season in connection to the controversy. Michigan and the Big Ten were set to appear in court on Friday to address the school’s attempt to overturn Harbaugh’s ban. However, an agreement was reached between the parties, and Harbaugh accepted the suspension. The university’s focus remains on cooperating with the NCAA investigation and upholding a commitment to integrity and due process.