Notre Dame's Freeman Chooses Students Over NFL Offers

While nine NFL teams scramble to fill head coaching positions, Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman keeps saying no to interviews and staying exactly where he is.

Freeman made his position crystal clear Wednesday when asked about NFL opportunities. "I don't need to come out with a statement every time one of these job openings happens," he told reporters. "Everything I want and everything I need can be achieved right here at Notre Dame."

The timing makes his choice even more striking. Mike Tomlin just stepped down from the Pittsburgh Steelers, creating one of the league's most coveted positions. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport confirmed Freeman "still looms large in the NFL coaching carousel" despite refusing interviews.

But Freeman isn't budging. Just before New Year's, when speculation reached its peak, he posted a simple message on X: "2026… run it back. Go Irish" with a shamrock emoji.

His track record at Notre Dame explains why NFL teams keep calling. Since joining in 2021 after Brian Kelly left for LSU, Freeman has compiled a 43-12 record. He guided the Fighting Irish to the National Championship game last season and nearly made the College Football Playoff this year.

Why This Inspires

Freeman's decision represents something powerful in an era when "moving up" often means moving on. He's choosing to invest in college athletes, shape young men during formative years, and build something lasting over chasing bigger paychecks and professional glory.

His loyalty also sends a message to his players that commitments matter. In college sports, where transfer portals and coaching departures have become routine, Freeman is modeling the stability he asks from his team.

The NFL will keep knocking, and Freeman will keep choosing South Bend.