Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman drops major hint about NFL future

Marcus Freeman took a rare step and addressed speculation about a potential move to the NFL this offseason. The Notre Dame coach acknowledging the interest while reiterating his commitment to staying in South Bend. 

Freeman dropped by Good Morning Football this week and said he remains open minded about the future, but right now it's all about his fourth season with the Irish. 

“Never say never,” Freeman said. “Maybe I daydream every once in a while, or think about it. When there was some interest this year, it gave me the opportunity to gain knowledge on what being a head coach in the NFL truly entails — what’s the relation with the GM, the ownership, and what they believe it takes to have success at that level.”

Freeman said those conversations offered insight into how professional franchises operate. This puts him ahead of many college coaches who might be wanting to jump into the league over the next few years. It's knowledge he believes could prove valuable beyond 2026. 

“If there’s a time and opportunity that’s right, then we’ll see what the future holds," Freeman added. 

More: Ohio State's Ryan Day faces backlash after NFL Combine

The Irish are reached the national championship game following the 2024 season before falling to Ohio State. Despite finishing 10-2 in 2025, Freeman's team missed the College Football Playoff. 

“I have the best job in America,” Freeman said. “I love this place.”

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