Notre Dame HC Marcus Freeman Gets Another Big NFL Update

Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman has been the most discussed college head coach on the NFL hiring radar in recent weeks, emerging as a prime candidate for several professional openings.

Only the Tennessee Titans and New York Giants currently have vacant head coaching positions, but Freeman’s name surfaced in connection with other potential spots that could open after the final week of the regular season, such as the Cleveland Browns, Las Vegas Raiders, and Miami Dolphins.

Those rumors came to a swift conclusion when Freeman notified interested NFL franchises before the New Year that he intended to remain at Notre Dame, having agreed to an improved contract that elevates his compensation to levels comparable with the nation’s elite college coaches.

According to reporting from The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, the decision was not made lightly, as Freeman gave genuine consideration to transitioning to the professional level.

This marks a shift from the previous offseason, when his name briefly circulated in connection with the Chicago Bears before they selected Ben Johnson, a scenario Freeman reportedly dismissed more quickly.

Russini further revealed that one unexpected franchise, already led by a veteran head coach, internally explored the idea of contacting Freeman once their season concluded.

“Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman seriously considered making the jump to the NFL, with multiple teams reaching out to gauge his interest, according to league sources,” Russini said.

“Though Freeman ultimately announced he’s staying at Notre Dame, there’s a strong belief around the league that this won’t be the last time his name is connected to NFL opportunities. The Giants, Titans and Browns all had internal discussions about Freeman, as did the Pittsburgh Steelers (in the event longtime coach Mike Tomlin decided to step away).”

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ inclusion stems from recurring questions about Mike Tomlin’s long-term future with the organization.

Tomlin has maintained an impressive streak of never posting a losing record across his 19 seasons at the helm.

He guided the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory in just his second year in 2008.However, the franchise has not secured a postseason victory since 2016.

Pittsburgh has qualified for the playoffs only four times over the past eight seasons.

As the NFL coaching carousel prepares to spin following Week 18, Freeman’s recommitment removes one of the most attractive candidates from consideration.

League insiders anticipate that his success with the Fighting Irish will continue to draw professional interest in future cycles, ensuring his name remains prominent whenever openings arise.