FOOTBALL

Michigan football: Helow out, Partridge likely coaching linebackers

Michigan’s two-year linebackers coach is on his way out, and in his place will likely be Chris Partridge.

Published

1 year ago

February 16, 2023

On Thursday, it was announced that George Helow — Michigan’s linebackers coach — will be leaving the program. In his place will likely be long-time assistant of Jim Harbaugh, Chris Partridge, who was recently re-hired by the Michigan football program after serving three years on Lane Kiffin’s staff at Ole Miss.

The announcement comes as a surprise, perhaps one that is less shocking than it may seem. When the Wolverines initially hired Partridge, he was labeled as a “defensive assistant coach” with no further distinction. It has become clear that Partridge was hired as a replacement for Helow before his departure was announced, so the program gave Partridge a blank label until the time was right.

Michigan football: Helow out, Partridge to linebackers

Helow was a key member of the 2021 and 2022 defensive coaching staff at Michigan — he helped lead the Wolverines to two-straight victories over Ohio State, Big Ten titles, and more. He also has experience as a special teams coordinator at Maryland and a defensive position coach at Colorado State.

While losing Helow is not good, there is still some positive news. Chris Partridge is an incredible defensive assistant and one of the best recruiters that Jim Harbaugh has ever hired — he was the lead man on recruits like Rashan Gary, Daxton Hill, and more.

Ideally, the transition from Helow to Partridge is seamless as the Wolverines seek out a third-straight Big Ten Championship and perhaps a Nation title this fall.

This story will be updated as more details emerge.

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CJ has covered college athletics in paid roles for around five years, including numerous sports and beats. His most recent work revolves largely around Penn State and Michigan football and basketball as a member of the credentialed media at both schools. Right now, CJ writes for Blue by Ninety, where he also serves as the site's credentialed football reporter. He also does some credentialed basketball coverage. Previously, CJ has made stops with sites like GBMWolverine, Saturday Blitz, Steeler Nation, and more.