
Marcus Freeman, the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, has recently garnered significant attention from NFL teams. Reports indicate that professional franchises are evaluating Freeman as a potential candidate for head coaching positions in the upcoming 2025 hiring cycle.
Freeman’s coaching trajectory has been impressive. After a collegiate playing career at Ohio State University, he was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Although his professional playing career was brief due to an enlarged heart condition, leading to his retirement in 2010, Freeman transitioned into coaching. He held assistant coaching roles at institutions including Ohio State, Kent State, Purdue, and Cincinnati. In 2021, he joined Notre Dame as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, and by December of that year, he was promoted to head coach following Brian Kelly’s departure.
Under Freeman’s leadership, Notre Dame has achieved a commendable 32–9 record, including a 13–1 season that secured a spot in the College Football Playoff. His success has not gone unnoticed; NFL insiders, such as Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, have listed Freeman among the top young coaches to watch for potential NFL head coaching roles. Pelissero noted that NFL teams have inquired about Freeman in recent years, highlighting his rapid ascent in the coaching ranks.
Despite the burgeoning interest from the NFL, Freeman has expressed a steadfast commitment to Notre Dame. In a recent interview, he addressed the rumors, stating, “I try not to waste time thinking about an uncertain future.” He emphasized his focus on the present and his dedication to preparing his team for success. Freeman also acknowledged that the speculation is a testament to the program’s achievements, attributing individual recognition to collective team success.
To further solidify his commitment, Notre Dame announced a contract extension for Freeman, believed to be for an additional four years, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. While specific terms were not disclosed due to the university’s private status, this extension underscores the institution’s confidence in Freeman’s leadership and their desire to maintain stability within the program.
Freeman’s rapid rise and the subsequent NFL interest are indicative of his coaching acumen and the respect he commands within the football community. However, his current focus remains on leading Notre Dame to further success, particularly as they prepare for their upcoming College Football Playoff semifinal against the Penn State Nittany Lions. As the NFL coaching carousel continues to turn, Freeman’s name may resurface in discussions, but for now, he appears dedicated to his role in South Bend.
In summary, while Marcus Freeman is firmly on the NFL’s radar as a potential head coaching candidate, his immediate attention is devoted to his responsibilities at Notre Dame. The university’s proactive measures, including the recent contract extension, reflect their commitment to retaining Freeman’s services amidst external interest. As the situation develops, it will be intriguing to observe how Freeman’s career trajectory unfolds and whether the allure of the NFL will eventually entice him away from the collegiate ranks.