In a significant move for the Michigan football program, defensive backs coach and key recruiter Steve Clinkscale has decided to depart for the NFL's Los Angeles Chargers, according to a source confirmed by MLive on Saturday. The news of Clinkscale's departure was first reported by the Detroit Free Press.

Clinkscale, 46, joins a growing list of coaches leaving the Wolverines' defensive staff. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, defensive line coach Mike Elston, and strength coach Ben Herbert have already made the move to join the Chargers, who are coached by Jim Harbaugh. Despite previous reports suggesting Clinkscale's determination to stay, he ultimately chose to leave for the NFL opportunity.

The timing of this announcement coincides with Don "Wink" Martindale reportedly becoming Michigan's new defensive coordinator, with the official announcement expected to be made next week. Clinkscale had been an integral part of the Wolverines' coaching staff for the past three seasons, contributing to the improvement of their passing defense year after year.

During his tenure, Michigan's passing defense rose from 27th in the country in 2021 to 20th in 2022, culminating in an impressive second-place ranking in the past season, which saw the Wolverines achieve a perfect 15-0 record and win the national championship. Clinkscale was given the co-coordinator title prior to the 2022 season.

Clinkscale's departure will undoubtedly impact the team's recruiting efforts, as he excelled at attracting high school prospects from his native states of Ohio and Kentucky. These were two regions where Michigan had previously struggled to secure commitments before Clinkscale's arrival.

With head coach Sherrone Moore now facing the task of replacing the entire defensive coaching staff ahead of the upcoming 2024 season, the changes continue for Michigan football. Interim linebackers coach Rick Minter and safeties coach and special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh have also left, with Harbaugh joining the NFL's Seattle Seahawks as their special teams coordinator.

Interestingly, Clinkscale's son, EJ, is set to join the Michigan football team as a walk-on defensive back this fall, adding a personal connection to the program despite his father's departure.

As Michigan prepares for their next chapter under new defensive coordinator Don Martindale, the team will undoubtedly face the challenge of maintaining their defensive prowess and finding suitable replacements for the departed coaches.