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Why is Chris Partridge so important for Michigan recruiting?

Michigan has a familiar face returning to Ann Arbor. He will be essential for the Wolverines’ recruiting going forward.

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Apr 13, 2019; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines special teams coordinator Chris Partridge looks on during the spring football game at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

On Monday, Michigan football reunited with an original member of Jim Harbaugh’s first coaching staff. Chris Partridge, who left the Wolverines for Ole Miss after a 9-4 season in 2019, will be returning to the Michigan sideline as a defensive assistant coach. 

Partridge spent five years on Jim Harbaugh’s initial Michigan football staff — he coached the Wolverines from 2015-2019 before taking the same position with Ole Miss in 2020. In 2022 Partridge became the Rebels’ defensive play-caller, though he was not up to par, and is now returning to Ann Arbor.

While Partridge is a great defensive mind, he is also an incredible recruiter. During his initial five-year run with the Wolverines, Partridge helped haul in some of Michigan’s biggest recruits — some of which turned into 1st-round NFL Draft picks when all was said and done. Some of the most notable names that Partridge recruited include:

    • Rashan Gary (Five-star)
    • Daxton Hill (Five-star)
    • Christopher Hinton (Five-star)
    • Aubrey Solomon (Five-star)
    • Cesar Ruiz (Five-star)

Partridge brings a great deal of recruiting connections back to the Michigan staff, especially after spending three seasons in the heart of SEC territory. He also brings well-established relationships on the east coast (New Jersey) and in parts of Florida — two significant pipelines for Michigan football recruiting.

The Chris Partridge hire makes a lot of sense for the Wolverines in general, but when it comes to recruiting, Partridge is a massive addition to Jim Harbaugh’s staff. Michigan’s 2024 class already ranks in the top 10 with six commits (five four-star commits) and should continue to improve as time goes on. Only time will tell, but the Wolverines’ recruiting efforts appear to be on an upward trend.

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