Is Notre Dame's Marcus Freeman Really Ready to Jump to the NFL? Shocking Reasons He Might!

As the 2025 college football season unfolds, head coach Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish are laser-focused on securing a spot in the College Football Playoff. After narrowly missing out on the national championship last season against the Ohio State Buckeyes, hopes are high in South Bend for a shot at redemption.

Initially, the season started off sluggishly for the Fighting Irish, causing some to question whether they could reclaim their status as a national powerhouse. However, as the year progressed, Notre Dame rallied and established itself as one of the top teams in the nation, showcasing resilience and talent on the field.

Freeman's success as a head coach has not gone unnoticed. His name has frequently surfaced in discussions surrounding potential openings at prominent programs, such as LSU, Penn State, and Florida. Despite these rumors, it appears that Freeman is committed to his current role and the historic program he leads.

However, the question looms: could the NFL beckon him in the future? Some insiders speculate that Freeman is a rising star, likely to attract attention from professional teams seeking fresh leadership. NFL insider Tom Pelissero recently included Freeman among the top candidates for the next coaching cycle, noting his rapid ascent from a graduate assistant position at Ohio State to head coach of Notre Dame.

"A fifth-round draft pick of the Bears in 2009, Freeman never appeared in a regular-season game, but his story in pro football might not be written just yet,"

Pelissero wrote. "NFL teams -- including the Bears last year -- have inquired about Freeman in recent years amidst his meteoric rise in coaching. Since taking over in the aftermath of Brian Kelly's midnight exit for LSU, Freeman has led the Fighting Irish to a 41-12 record and a current No. 9 national ranking."

Freeman's effectiveness as a coach is evident in his track record. Since he took over as head coach in 2021, he has compiled an impressive 42-12 record, nearly clinching a national championship last season. The impact he has made at Notre Dame is palpable, and any potential exit would likely hinge on an irresistible offer from the NFL or a return to his alma mater.

As the season continues, it's likely that NFL teams will keep a close eye on Freeman. His engaging presence and proven track record not only make him a viable candidate for coaching positions but also raise questions about the future of the Fighting Irish. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the allure of the professional league proves too enticing for Freeman to resist.

For more updates on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and college football, stay tuned to Newsweek Sports.

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