Michigan football: Connor Stalions releases statement after resignation
Michigan Wolverines suspended staffer Connor Stalions resigned on Friday from his post amid the school’s alleged sign-stealing scandal. Now, we have heard from Stalions and his attorney for the first time since the investigation began.
Brad Beckworth of Nix Patterson provided statements to The Athletic from both himself and Stalions after news of his resignation became public on Friday night.
“As he informed the school earlier today, Connor chose to resign because recent stories regarding his time with the University of Michigan have created a distraction for the team,” Beckworth said. “He hopes his resignation will help the team and coaching staff focus on tomorrow’s game and the remainder of the season. Connor also wants to make it clear that, to his knowledge, neither Coach Harbaugh, nor any other coach or staff member, told anyone to break any rules or were aware of improper conduct regarding the recent allegations of advanced scouting.”
Stalions said: “I love the University of Michigan and its football program. “And I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I’ve had to work with the incredible student-athletes, Coach Harbaugh and the other coaches that have been a part of the Michigan football family during my tenure. I do not want to be a distraction from what I hope to be a championship run for the team, and I will continue to cheer them on.”
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A report from Nicole Auerbach of The Athletic on Friday also stated that Stalions “refused to cooperate with any internal or external investigations or discussions.” He was set to meet with Michigan officials on Friday and did not attend, potentially on the advice of his legal counsel.
The investigation into Michigan’s sign-stealing operation was opened two weeks ago on Oct. 19. Stalions was named as the person of interest in the case due in large part to evidence that he purchased tickets to games of 12 of 13 Big Ten opponents over the last three seasons and other potential postseason opponents. The tickets were purchased in his own name and then transferred to others.
This week, Central Michigan University also opened up an investigation on a man resembling Stalions appearing on the sideline with a victors pass and team-issued gear for the Sept. 1 opener at Michigan State. No updates have been given on the state of their investigation.
This story is developing.
