The Chicago Bears are reportedly setting their sights on Marcus Freeman, the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, as they search for a leader to rejuvenate their struggling organization.
Despite Freeman just recently agreeing to a contract extension at Notre Dame, the Bears still plan on pursuing him when the Irish finish their season next Monday night.
Freeman, currently in his third season in South Bend, has led the Irish to an impressive 33-9 overall record.
His team is set to face Ohio State in the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 20, capping a stellar season that saw Notre Dame finish 14-1 and defeat Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State during the course of their playoff run.
Freeman’s rapid rise in the coaching ranks has caught the Bears’ attention, with reports suggesting the franchise has been tracking him as a potential candidate for months.
Known for his defensive acumen and leadership, Freeman has transformed Notre Dame into a playoff contender since taking over as head coach in 2021 after Brian Kelly’s departure to LSU.
Since stepping into the head coach role, Freeman has quickly become one of the brightest young coaches in the sport.
Pelissero noted, āIt wouldn’t be a shock if at some point he at least considers going to the NFL,ā indicating that the Bears are monitoring his potential interest in making the jump.
Freemanās success has not gone unnoticed despite his commitment to Notre Dame.
He has continued to elevate the Fighting Irish, leading them to their first national championship appearance since 1988.
Freemanās ties to the NFL – and the Bears in particular – add an intriguing layer to his candidacy.
Drafted by Chicago in 2009 after a standout collegiate career as a linebacker at Ohio State, Freemanās playing career was cut short due to a heart condition.
He later had brief stints with the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans before transitioning into coaching.
His coaching career began with roles as a linebackers coach at Kent State and Purdue, followed by a successful stint as defensive coordinator at Cincinnati, where he turned a struggling program into a College Football Playoff contender.
Freeman joined Notre Dame in 2021 as defensive coordinator, paving the way for his promotion to head coach.
If the Bears succeed in luring Freeman to Chicago, one key question will be his ability to develop young quarterback Caleb Williams, the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Freemanās defensive expertise is well-documented, but his lack of direct experience in grooming quarterbacks may necessitate hiring an offensive coordinator capable of guiding Williamsā growth.
The Bears are in the midst of a rebuild following a disappointing 5-12 season.
Williamsā development is central to their long-term plans, and Freemanās proven ability to establish a winning culture could make him an ideal candidate.
For now, Freemanās immediate priority is preparing Notre Dame for the national championship game against the Buckeyes.
Needless to say, any potential discussions with the Bears – or other NFL teams – will be tabled until after the title matchup.
Adding to the intrigue for Bears fans is today’s news that the Dallas Cowboys will be parting ways with head coach Mike McCarthy.
McCarthy, along with longtime veteran coach Pete Carroll, are viewed as strong candidates for the opening in Chicago.
What are your thoughts on the Freeman rumors? … At the end of the day, who do you think will be the Bears next head coach???
