Michigan Wolverines

Report: Michigan DT says Harbaugh encouraged him to retire

Published Jun. 26, 2015 2:41 p.m. ET

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Ondre Pipkins was to be a senior defensive lineman for Michigan this fall, but he told ESPN.com in a story published Friday he will have to finish his career elsewhere after new head coach Jim Harbaugh and other Michigan staffers repeatedly encouraged him to give up the game for health issues the player feels he does not have. 

"After consulting with our medical team, we do not think it is in Ondre's best interest as it relates to his health and welfare to play football, short or long term," Harbaugh told ESPN via a statement on Friday. "He remains on full scholarship and counts toward the 85 scholarship limit in pursuit of graduation from the University of Michigan."

Pipkins had a different version for the website, however. 

The former four-star recruit from Kansas City (Mo.) Park Hill said he was asked repeatedly to sign a waiver that would allow him to continue having his education paid for but remove him from Michigan's scholarship count because physically he could not longer play. Signing such a medical waiver is not uncommon for players who suffer chronic injuries. 

The 6-foot-3, 317-pounder said he has had two concussions since arriving in Ann Arbor and saw his 2013 season cut short by a knee injury but he previously was cleared to return to action. 

"I feel I'm healthy and ready to play," he told ESPN. "I don't want to sign the form. I wanted to play for my seniors and for the team. Coach Harbaugh said, 'I recommend you take the medical.'"

Pipkins has played 24 games for Michigan and logged 23 tackles, including one for loss. 

(H/T ESPN.com)

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