Notre Dame’s Football Coach, Marcus Freeman, Confirms Return for 2026 Season
Marcus Freeman, the head football coach at the University of Notre Dame, has announced that he will remain with the Fighting Irish through the 2026 season. Freeman made the declaration via a social media post, putting an end to speculation about a potential move to the National Football League (NFL).
“2026…run it back,” Freeman shared, followed by “Go Irish.”
Rumors connecting Freeman to the NFL coaching ranks had been circulating since the previous season. His name was mentioned in connection with the Chicago Bears’ head coaching vacancy. Later, there were whispers linking him to the New York Giants, who are expected to be in the market for a new head coach after the current NFL season concludes.
The speculation intensified after Notre Dame was not selected for the College Football Playoff, leading to the team’s decision to decline a bowl game invitation. As the NFL season nears its end, teams will soon begin making decisions regarding head coaching positions, further fueling the rumors.
When previously asked by Complex News about the possibility of coaching in the NFL, Freeman acknowledged the interest but emphasized his focus on his current role.
“I often, not all the time, but when I feel like I can weave it into a message to the players I do address and I say, ‘You don’t let somebody else’s noise become your noise.’ You don’t have to allow somebody else’s noise become my noise, right? And somebody might say something to me, ‘Hey, your name’s up for this job, OK?’ But that doesn’t have to be my noise. That doesn’t have to be the things I think about. I need to think about value in the moment for the opportunity that we have but also use it as a sense of gratitude.”
He also shared his respect for the Giants organization when he said, “One, I have the utmost respect for the Giants organization. You talk about the history of the NFL, what a special organization. But two, it’s also gratitude for the job you have because you wouldn’t have said that if we stunk. So, I know we’re in this position because of the people. It’s not a person. It’s because of the people.”
With this announcement, Freeman reaffirms his commitment to Notre Dame and aims to lead the team back into contention for a national championship in the coming years. He has served as the head coach since 2022. His previous coaching experience includes defensive coordinating positions at the University of Cincinnati, Purdue University, and Kent State University. As a player, Freeman was a linebacker at Ohio State University.
The announcement brings a sense of stability to the Notre Dame football program as they look to the future. Players and fans alike can now look forward to the upcoming seasons with Freeman at the helm.
College football fans and analysts are closely watching Notre Dame’s trajectory under Freeman’s leadership, anticipating continued growth and success for the Fighting Irish.
