Former Michigan Football Coach Files Lawsuit Against University
ANN ARBOR, Mich. — Chris Partridge, the former linebackers coach for the University of Michigan, has initiated legal action against the university, its board of regents, and the athletics director, following his dismissal in November 2023. The suit, filed in U.S. District Court in Michigan, alleges that his termination was unjust and infringed upon his Fourteenth Amendment right to due process amidst ongoing NCAA investigations into allegations of in-person scouting and sign-stealing.
### Allegations of Unjust Dismissal
The lawsuit contends that the university’s decision to terminate Partridge’s employment was not only unfounded but also damaging to his professional reputation. The document asserts that the university disseminated “false and damaging information” regarding his conduct, which has purportedly caused irreparable harm to his career and personal well-being.
Michigan officials have not offered immediate comment on the lawsuit, while the Big Ten Conference has also refrained from addressing the matter.
Partridge’s firing came during a turbulent period for Michigan football, coinciding with allegations against former staff member Connor Stalions. It was reported that Stalions had engaged in unauthorized scouting of opponents, which is a violation of NCAA rules. The situation led to significant scrutiny of the university’s football program. Stalions ultimately resigned prior to Partridge’s termination.
### Investigation Outcomes and Partridge’s Defense
In 2025, the NCAA’s Committee on Infractions concluded that Stalions had managed a systematic scouting operation for several years, which included additional recruiting violations, resulting in the imposition of substantial fines on the university. Notably, the investigation largely cleared Partridge of any wrongdoing, although the circumstances of his termination had already raised several questions.
In the aftermath of his firing, rumors circulated regarding the reasons behind the university’s decision. Partridge publicly denied any involvement in the alleged scouting scheme. He expressed on social media that he had no knowledge of any scouting activities and claimed he was terminated for allegedly not adhering to the university’s directive against discussing the investigation with any program affiliates.
He defended his actions, stating, “At no point did I destroy any evidence related to the ongoing investigation.”
### Claims of Misrepresentation
The lawsuit alleges that the university justified Partridge’s termination by claiming he had instructed a player to “get an attorney,” in contradiction of an alleged directive to avoid communication with athletes during the investigation. Partridge confirmed that he did convey this advice, but he contends that at no point was the coaching staff explicitly ordered to cease communication with players.
The suit illustrates the turmoil surrounding Partridge’s firing, arguing that he was used as a scapegoat. The lawsuit claims Partridge was wrongfully dismissed simply for informing a player of their right to legal counsel.
Furthermore, the lawsuit details allegations that university representatives, including members of the athletics department and at least one board member, spread misleading information. Reports indicated that Partridge had been fired due to accusations of “destroying evidence,” allowing this narrative to gain traction in the media.
### Context of Dismissal and Aftermath
Partridge’s firing came just before the University of Michigan’s football team achieved national championship status. The day following his termination, the university and the Big Ten Conference reached an agreement that allowed head coach Jim Harbaugh to serve out the final two games of a three-game suspension. This agreement came in exchange for the conference halting its investigation into the sign-stealing allegations.
In addition to his position at Michigan, Partridge went on to serve as the outside linebackers coach for the Seattle Seahawks, contributing to the team’s success in clinching a Super Bowl championship shortly thereafter.
### Seeking Redress
The lawsuit filed by Partridge seeks unspecified damages that will be determined at trial. It also calls for efforts to restore his reputation and clear his name following the contentious circumstances surrounding his termination.
With ongoing implications for the university and its football program, the case will likely attract significant attention as it unfolds in the courts. As both parties prepare for trial, the focus will remain on the legal interpretations of due process and whether the allegations against Partridge warrant the claims of unjust dismissal in the realm of college athletics.
Source: Original Reporting
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