News - Marcus Freeman Commits to Notre Dame Amid NFL Speculations

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Notre Dame has officially announced the restructuring of Marcus Freeman's contract, ensuring that he will continue as the head coach of the Fighting Irish into the next season. The news dispels swirling rumors about Freeman's potential departure to the NFL, as he reportedly turned down overtures from two teams in the league. Freeman's extension, now binding him to the university through 2031, was first reported by SI.com. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, the contract extension highlights Notre Dame's commitment to keeping Freeman at the helm following notable accomplishments. At 39, Freeman boasts an impressive overall coaching record of 43-12, with a pivotal 34-7 mark across the last three years. His adept leadership steered Notre Dame to a remarkable rebound last season as they secured ten consecutive victories after an initially shaky 0-2 start. Despite missing out on a berth in the College Football Playoff, eschewing participation in a subsequent bowl game, Freeman guided Notre Dame to a historic performance in 2024. Not only did the team set a school record with 14 wins against just two losses, but they also electrified fans by advancing to the national championship game. Initially joining Notre Dame as the defensive coordinator under former head coach Brian Kelly, Freeman was handpicked as Kelly's successor following Kelly's departure to LSU in 2021. Before his tenure at Notre Dame, Freeman honed his defensive acumen as the coordinator for the University of Cincinnati and further developed his coaching philosophies as the linebackers coach at Purdue and Kent State. Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Notre Dame will lean on the anticipated return of quarterback CJ Carr along with a robust young defense that excelled in national metrics for yards and points allowed. Freeman's unwavering loyalty to Notre Dame was further solidified in a candid social media post, where he confidently declared, “2026… run it back,” signaling his long-term vision and commitment to the program. Moreover, Freeman's name had surfaced as a potential candidate for the vacant head coaching position at the New York Giants, illustrating his rising stock in the world of football. However, Freeman ultimately chose to continue building on his substantial success at South Bend, safeguarding Notre Dame's future prospects.