Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman celebrates after winning the first round of the College Football Playoff. MICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

'Greatest job in America': Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman asked about Steelers gig

Originally posted on Gridiron Heroics | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Jul 19, 2025 9:17 AM ET

Amid a run in the College Football Playoff last December, Notre Dame signed Marcus Freeman to a contract extension to fend off NFL teams like the Chicago Bears from poaching their head coach. However, the Irish will have a hard time keeping offers from coming from the league if his success continues.

During an appearance on the “Unsportsmanlike” podcast on Thursday, Freeman was asked if he’d consider taking the Pittsburgh Steelers head coach job once Mike Tomlin is no longer with the team.

Marcus Freeman on the idea of leaving for the Pittsburgh Steelers

Freeman said he was honored to be compared to a Super Bowl-winning head coach like Tomlin, but thinks the Irish job is the best gig in the United States.

“Well, I have to thank you,” Freeman said. “I think about Mike Tomlin and who he is and what he represents, and I have a personal relationship with him, and to be even mentioned as a person that could follow in the footsteps of Mike Tomlin is humbling, and I appreciate it.

“Now, with that being said, I got the greatest job in America. I often say that I got what I want, and the opportunity to lead this program is an opportunity of a lifetime.”

Notre Dame has been successful under Freeman

Fighting Irish head coach Marcus Freeman looks on during the second quarter against Georgia Bulldogs at Caesars Superdome. Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Freeman, 39, has compiled a 33-10 record in his first three years with the Irish. He led the program to its first 14-win season in 2024, as the Irish reached the CFP national title but ultimately lost 34-23 to his alma mater, Ohio State.

It could be a mixed bag if Freeman leads the Irish to their first national championship since 1988, as the price to keep the inspirational coach from the NFL might be too high for any college football program.

This article first appeared on Gridiron Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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