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Marcus Freeman Announces Decision On His Future At Notre Dame

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated Jan 18, 2025 1:20 PM ET

Marcus Freeman has suddenly emerged as a popular candidate to coach the Chicago Bears. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the storied franchise has done "extensive research" on Notre Dame's head coach for months.

Freeman was considered a really good coach coming into the 2024 college football season. He has done wonders for his stock by leading the Fighting Irish to the national championship game. If he defeats Ohio State on Monday night, he'll be considered a Notre Dame legend at the young age of 39.

With the national title game just two days away, Freeman spoke to reporters on Saturday about this monumental matchup. During his media availability, he was asked about the rumors linking him to the Bears.

For now, Freeman claims he's not interested in leaving Notre Dame for the NFL.

"To hear that the Bears have interest, it’s humbling," Freeman said, via Heather Dinich. "It’s the NFL. But it’s also a reminder that with team success comes individual success. I have put zero thought into coaching in the NFL."

Notre Dame fans can take a deep breath now that Freeman has addressed the rumors.

Earlier this week, Bruce Feldman of The Athletic said he'd be surprised if Freeman left Notre Dame for the Bears.

"I’d be very surprised if Marcus left to go be the Bears head coach," Feldman said. "You know, obviously, the Bears’ president, Kevin Warren, was the president of the Big Ten. I could totally see why he would be very enamored with Marcus. Marcus has really grown in the last couple of years as a head coach, and he put together a terrific staff.

"I think Marcus knows people around Notre Dame gave him a big opportunity and he is thriving in it. He’s got a pretty young family — six kids. They had the chance to either go to Baton Rouge or to be the DC at Notre Dame. He chose Notre Dame because I think they felt comfortable with the fit there. Everything has gone exceptionally well. He just turned 39 last week. The NFL will be there for him if he wants it five years from now. A lot of people have taken the Bears job and it has not worked out."

It's possible that Freeman's stance on the NFL could change in the future. He has plenty of time though to think about going to the pros.

Freeman will try to cap off his incredible 2024 season with a victory in the national championship on Monday.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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