Marcus Freeman, the head coach of Notre Dame’s football team, is attracting attention from the NFL amidst his impressive tenure with the Fighting Irish. Freeman has the unspeakably remarkable score of 43 wins and 12 losses. Last year, he took the team to the national title game, solidifying his growing reputation as one of the best college coaches in the country.
Freeman’s success has not gone unnoticed. As he proves himself further at Notre Dame, NFL teams are becoming increasingly interested. Pete Bevacqua, Notre Dame’s athletic director, believes that a unique opportunity awaits. He’s committed to holding Freeman at the college level.
Bevacqua succeeded Jack Swarbrick in March 2024. Even if he didn’t hire Freeman, he appreciates the difference Freeman makes in a program charged to the touch. He knows how seriously the NFL is apparently interested, and yet he’s clearly hellbent on keeping Freeman at Notre Dame.
“We want to ensure that he feels appreciated here,” said Bevacqua. “I can say with 100% certainty he feels that way, and Notre Dame is totally aligned around the importance of college football for Notre Dame.”
In December, Freeman signed a four-year, $18.5 million extension, keeping him in Atlanta through the 2030 season. Bevacqua intends to look at Freeman’s contract every year with the express intention of making him one of the top paid coaches of college football.
I remind him daily that he’s worthy to play at the top level. He has earned the right to be included among their ranks, both in yearly contract terms and as a matter of principle. Walsh, but the predation Bevacqua added.
Bevacqua’s commitment goes beyond financial considerations. Yet his most important duty is to ensure that Freeman is made to feel valued and welcomed in this environment. The athletic director understands that maintaining this relationship is crucial not only for Freeman’s career but for Notre Dame’s football program.
While colleges, NFL teams, and even Hollywood are trying to poach Freeman, Bevacqua is understandably focused on keeping him. He believes that Freeman’s leadership and expertise are vital for Notre Dame’s future success in college football.
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