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Former Michigan Assistant Football Coach Sues University
Chris Partridge alleges wrongful termination and being made a 'scapegoat' in sign-stealing scandal
Published on Mar. 12, 2026
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Former University of Michigan assistant football coach Chris Partridge has filed a federal lawsuit against the university, its board of trustees, and athletic director Warde Manuel. Partridge alleges he was wrongfully fired and made a 'scapegoat' during the program's 2023 sign-stealing scandal, despite being cleared of wrongdoing by the NCAA. He is seeking recovery of lost wages and damages for the impact on his career and reputation.
Why it matters
This lawsuit highlights the fallout from the high-profile sign-stealing scandal at the University of Michigan and raises questions about the university's handling of the allegations and terminations of staff members. It also sheds light on the pressures faced by athletic departments and administrators when dealing with major scandals.
The details
Partridge, who is currently the linebackers coach for the Seattle Seahawks, was terminated on Nov. 17, 2023, amid an investigation into an advanced scouting operation. Although he was fired for an alleged failure to cooperate, the NCAA Committee on Infractions cleared him of all wrongdoing in 2025. The lawsuit alleges that Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti presented Manuel with 'uncorroborated, second-hand, inflammatory information' claiming Partridge had told a student-athlete to be dishonest with investigators, and that Manuel offered to fire Partridge and drop legal claims against the Big Ten in exchange for Petitti keeping the information private.
- Partridge was terminated on Nov. 17, 2023.
- The NCAA Committee on Infractions cleared Partridge of all wrongdoing in 2025.
The players
Chris Partridge
A former assistant football coach at the University of Michigan who is currently the linebackers coach for the Seattle Seahawks.
Warde Manuel
The athletic director at the University of Michigan.
Tony Petitti
The Big Ten Commissioner.
Sherrone Moore
A former University of Michigan football coach who was dismissed in December for an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.
Jim Harbaugh
The former head coach of the University of Michigan football team.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The University of Michigan has hired the Chicago-based law firm Jenner & Block to conduct a review of the athletic department's culture and procedures following a series of scandals. The firm is expected to share its findings this spring.
The takeaway
This case highlights the complex issues facing universities and athletic departments when dealing with high-profile scandals, including allegations of wrongdoing, pressure from outside entities, and the impact on staff and reputations. It also raises questions about the university's decision-making and handling of the situation.
