Notre Dame Coach Marcus Freeman Decides to Stay, Giants Must Look Elsewhere

Marcus Freeman of Notre Dame will not be a Giants head coach candidate. Freeman, who has become one of college football’s brightest young leaders, said on Monday that he will stay at Notre Dame.

Notre Dame has won 43 games and lost 12 under Freeman, who turns 40 in January. This year, the team went 10-2. Despite interest from NFL organizations like the Giants, Freeman has decided to stay at South Bend and lead the Fighting Irish with a large pay boost.

Freeman was rumored to replace Giants head coach Brian Daboll, despite never coaching in the NFL. NFL teams recruit successful college coaches expecting their leadership talents would translate to the pros. Many successful college coaches have failed to transition to the NFL.

With Freeman out, the Giants may turn to NFL coaches. John Harbaugh and Mike Tomlin are candidates. The losing team’s coach may be considered for new possibilities after the AFC North title game, especially if coaching changes are expected.

While Freeman is committed to Notre Dame, the Giants and other NFL teams may consider pursuing him. For now, Freeman’s decision highlights the struggle teams confront to find elite coaching expertise and the delicate balance between collegiate success and NFL demands.

Fans will watch as the Giants interview former NFL coaches and up-and-coming contenders for the job.

Sources:

• University of Notre Dame Official Athletics Department

• NFL Official News Releases

• Team Press Statements from New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens, and Pittsburgh Steelers