The New York Giants have listed Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman as a candidate for their head coaching vacancy. The 39-year-old, who guided the Fighting Irish to last season's national championship game, is attracting attention from other NFL organizations due to his leadership and success. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love endorsed Freeman's potential in the pros, highlighting his ability to connect with players.
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman is emerging as a notable figure in NFL coaching searches amid the New York Giants' hunt for a new leader. The Giants, who hold a 2-11 record this season, have compiled a list of candidates that includes Freeman alongside Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, and Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.
Freeman, who turns 40 next month, has led Notre Dame for the past four years, securing a contract extension through 2030 last December. Despite never coaching in the NFL, his people skills and performance—taking the Irish to the national championship game last season—have impressed general managers and owners. He has posted a 23-1 record in must-win games following early-season losses over the past two years.
The interest comes as Notre Dame was recently snubbed from the College Football Playoff, leaving Freeman to consider his options. While he could stay to pursue a national title with the Fighting Irish, a move to the NFL would test his adaptability from college to professional ranks.
Jeremiyah Love, a Notre Dame star and Heisman Trophy finalist, voiced strong support for Freeman during Heisman weekend. "Coach Free, I have all the trust in him and his ability to lead a team and, also, his ability to connect with the players," Love said. He added that Freeman would connect well with NFL players, who are "grown men who have families," and called him "a great head coach anywhere, on any level."
Freeman's potential leap highlights the ongoing transition of successful college coaches to the NFL, though many face challenges in adapting.
