Report: NFL Franchise Wants To Interview Marcus Freeman
01/12/2025 01:30 PM
Marcus Freeman could receive an invitation to interview for an NFL head coaching opportunity after the National Championship Game.
In his third season at Notre Dame, Freeman has the program one win away from its first title since 1988. The former linebacker will face his alma mater, Ohio State, on Jan. 20 after leading the Fighting Irish to College Football Playoff victories over Georgia and Penn State.
Freeman was already emerging as a name to watch for an NFL coaching gig, and one team is reportedly interested on the heels of a strong Playoff push. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Chicago Bears want to interview Freeman for their head coaching vacancy.
"The Bears have done extensive research for months on Marcus Freeman," Pelissero said Sunday. "He's only 39 years old. Would not be a shock if, at some point, he at least considers going to the NFL."
The Bears would presumably have to wait at least a week while Freeman focuses on the National Championship Game. It also remains unclear if he's interested in an NFL move.
Notre Dame has gone 33-9 under Freeman, who became the first Black or Asian head coach to make the Division I title game. He's won five bowl games in three years.
Meanwhile, the Bears haven't had a winning season since 2018. They've made two playoff appearances in the last 14 years, both of which ended in first-round losses.
Chicago fired Matt Eberflus amid a 5-12 season. Despite the organization's pitfalls, quarterback Caleb Williams could make the Bears a desirable landing spot for any coaching candidate.
If he takes an interview, Freeman would have plenty of competition for the job. The Bears have interviewed former USC national champion Pete Caroll, New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka, Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, and Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn.
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