Notre Dame's $54 Million Coach Predicted to Leave for NFL

Marcus Freeman led the Irish to the 2024 CFP title game and is now one of college football's highest-paid coaches.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 3:31pm

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Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, who just signed a contract extension worth $54 million through 2031, is predicted to lead the Irish to a national championship in 2026 before departing for an NFL head coaching job. Freeman has quickly risen through the coaching ranks and has had success at Notre Dame, including a run to the College Football Playoff national championship game in 2024.

Why it matters

Freeman's potential departure would be a major blow for Notre Dame, which has taken steps to retain him as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. His exit could disrupt the program's momentum and recruiting efforts, especially if it comes on the heels of a national title.

The details

After a 10-2 regular season in 2025 that saw Notre Dame controversially left out of the College Football Playoff, the Irish have reaffirmed their commitment to Freeman with a contract extension that makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the sport. Through five seasons, Freeman has a 43-12 record and has led Notre Dame to three straight double-digit win seasons, including a CFP title game appearance in 2024.

  • In December 2024, Freeman signed a new six-year contract extension.
  • In December 2025, Notre Dame further enhanced and restructured Freeman's deal, pushing his total compensation to $54 million through 2031.

The players

Marcus Freeman

The 31-year-old head coach of the Notre Dame football team, who has quickly risen through the coaching ranks and led the Irish to the College Football Playoff national championship game in 2024.

Pete Bevacqua

The Notre Dame athletic director who has publicly reaffirmed the program's support for Freeman amid reports linking him to NFL head coaching jobs.

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What they’re saying

“Freeman would lead Notre Dame to a national championship in 2026, then depart for an NFL head-coaching job.”

— Justin Williams, The Athletic reporter (The Athletic)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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