Marcus Freeman isn’t going anywhere - at least not right now. Speaking with local media for the first time since Notre Dame was left out of the College Football Playoff, the Irish head coach made it clear: his focus remains in South Bend.
Yes, Freeman acknowledged that he’s spoken with NFL general managers. But before the rumor mill starts cranking at full speed, let’s clarify what that means.
According to Freeman, those conversations weren’t job interviews - they were opportunities to learn. He framed them as professional development, a way to grow as a coach by understanding how things operate at the next level.
In his words, he’s using those insights to become better at his current job, not to line up the next one.
When asked if this would become an annual storyline - Freeman fielding NFL interest every offseason - he didn’t bite. Instead, he doubled down on his commitment to Notre Dame, saying he hasn’t felt the need to re-evaluate his future with the program.
“Everything that I need personally can be achieved right here,” Freeman said. That’s a strong statement, especially in an era where college coaches often use NFL flirtations as leverage or stepping stones.
Still, Freeman didn’t entirely close the door on coaching at the professional level someday. When asked directly if he wants to be an NFL head coach, he was honest: he doesn’t know what the future holds.
It’s a possibility, sure, but not something he’s actively chasing. For now, his energy is locked in on Notre Dame.
That’s exactly what Irish fans want to hear. After a season that ended just outside the playoff picture, stability at the top is critical.
Freeman’s message was clear: he’s not using Notre Dame as a pit stop. He’s building something - and he believes everything he needs to succeed is already in place.