Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman emerges as candidate for NFL vacancy

Jeff Hauser

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Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman emerges as candidate for NFL vacancy image

Marcus Freeman may still be coming to terms with Notre Dame’s exclusion from the College Football Playoff, but the Irish coach is already drawing attention at the professional level. 

There were rumors he could end up with the Chicago Bears after the season, but there's reportedly another team with serious interest. According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Freeman has emerged as a candidate for the New York Giants’ head coaching vacancy. 

Russini reported that Freeman is on a short list that also includes Green Bay defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Indianapolis defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Washington offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and Seattle offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. She also linked Texas' Steve Sarkisian to the Tennessee Titans opening earlier this year. 

Freeman is an attractive option for a few different reasons. He's expected to draw interest from multiple NFL teams after leading Notre Dame to the national championship game last season and compiling a 10-2 record this year. The 39-year-old coach has steadily elevated the program since taking over in 2022, establishing Notre Dame as a consistent national contender.

Whether Freeman would consider a move to the NFL remains unclear. He signed a contract extension last year that runs through the 2030 season, signaling Notre Dame’s long-term commitment to him. Freeman has frequently emphasized his belief in the program and his desire to bring a national title to South Bend.

Just like the college carousel, the NFL moves quickly, and opportunities at the professional level are rare. As recent coaching cycles have shown, contract terms often become secondary when coveted positions open, leaving Freeman with significant decisions ahead as interest builds.

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