Former Michigan assistant coach Chris Partridge filed a federal lawsuit against the university, its board of trustees, and athletic director Warde Manuel for wrongful termination during the 2023 sign-stealing scandal. Partridge, now the Seattle Seahawks' linebackers coach, was fired in November 2023 amid the Connor Stalions investigation but was later cleared by the NCAA.

Partridge's 46-page complaint alleges he was made a scapegoat after Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti presented Manuel with uncorroborated claims that Partridge advised a player to withhold information from NCAA investigators. The lawsuit claims Manuel offered to fire Partridge in exchange for the Big Ten dropping its opposition to Michigan's injunction hearing for suspended coach Jim Harbaugh. Partridge denies all allegations, stating he only advised the player to get legal counsel and be honest.

The NCAA Committee on Infractions ultimately exonerated Partridge in 2025, finding no evidence of wrongdoing. Despite his exoneration, Partridge told ESPN the scandal continues to impact his career aspirations of becoming a college head coach. The lawsuit seeks recovery of lost wages and damages for harm to his professional reputation and personal health.