Former Michigan Coach Sues University Over Firing

Chris Partridge claims wrongful termination and damage to reputation during NCAA investigation

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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Former University of Michigan linebackers coach Chris Partridge has filed a lawsuit against the university, its board of regents, and athletics director, alleging he was wrongfully terminated in 2023 during an NCAA investigation into allegations of in-person scouting and sign-stealing by a former university staffer.

Why it matters

This case highlights the complex legal and reputational issues that can arise when a coach is terminated amid an NCAA investigation, even if the coach is later cleared of wrongdoing. It raises questions about due process, transparency, and the lasting impact on a coach's career.

The details

Partridge's lawsuit argues his "termination was wholly unjustified and without legitimate cause," claiming the university violated his 14th Amendment right to due process. He alleges the university spread "false and damaging information" about his conduct, tarnishing his reputation. Partridge was fired shortly before Michigan won the national championship, and the lawsuit states he was made a "scapegoat" for the sign-stealing scheme orchestrated by a former university staffer.

  • Partridge was fired from Michigan in November 2023 during the NCAA investigation.
  • In 2025, the NCAA found recruiting violations and fined the school, but largely cleared Partridge of wrongdoing.
  • Partridge went on to coach for the Seattle Seahawks, helping them win the Super Bowl last month.

The players

Chris Partridge

Former linebackers coach at the University of Michigan who is suing the university over his 2023 firing.

University of Michigan

The public research university that fired Partridge during an NCAA investigation into alleged in-person scouting and sign-stealing.

Connor Stalions

Former University of Michigan staffer who the NCAA found orchestrated a scouting scheme for years, leading to recruiting violations and fines for the school.

Jim Harbaugh

Head coach of the University of Michigan football team who served a suspension related to the sign-stealing allegations.

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What they’re saying

“The University of Michigan unjustly terminated Partridge's employment and spread false and damaging information regarding his professional conduct, tarnishing Partridge's hard-earned reputation and inflicting irreparable harm on to his career and personal well-being.”

— Chris Partridge (Lawsuit)

“Partridge was a scapegoat who was wrongly fired simply because he told a player he had the right to have counsel.”

— Chris Partridge (Lawsuit)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow the lawsuit to proceed and determine if Partridge is entitled to damages.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for transparency and due process in how universities handle NCAA investigations, as well as the lasting reputational damage that can occur when coaches are terminated amid such probes, even if they are later cleared of wrongdoing.