Former Michigan coach cleared in NCAA sign-stealing investigation

Originally posted on Michigan Wolverines on SI
By Chris Breiler | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 12:55 PM ET

Chris Partridge, the former Michigan linebackers coach, has been officially cleared in connection with the NCAA's sign-stealing investigation. Partridge, who returned to the program ahead of the 2023 season, was initially accused of both having knowledge of the scheme and destroying evidence tied to the scheme ran by former staffer Connor Stalions, who orchestrated the operation. As a result, Partridge was fired in November 2023. He later released a statement denying any wrongdoing.

pic.twitter.com/ZFylBdaO8B
— Chris Partridge (@CoachCPartridge) November 27, 2023

Now, more than a year after his dismissal, Partridge has been exonerated. According to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz, the NCAA found no evidence linking him to the scandal in any capacity.

Chris Partridge, who was fired by Michigan in 2023 during the NCAA investigation, has essentially now been exonerated.

No penalties and no show-cause for Partridge, who’s now an assistant coach in the NFL with the Seahawks. https://t.co/GIiJbJ18NL pic.twitter.com/4zkKhUO36x
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 15, 2025

The broader investigation led to significant penalties for the Michigan program. The University is facing a substantial fine—reportedly upwards of $20 million—while current head coach Sherrone Moore will serve a one-game suspension in 2026, in addition to a previously self-imposed two-game suspension in 2024. Former head coach Jim Harbaugh received a 10-year show-cause penalty for failing to cooperate with the investigation and for lack of oversight with his program, and Connor Stalions was issued an 8-year show-cause for orchestrating the sign-stealing scheme.

You can read the full report HERE.

This article first appeared on Michigan Wolverines on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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