Illustration: espn.com

Coach Marcus Freeman's Return to Notre Dame

Notre Dame's head coach Marcus Freeman has confirmed that he will be returning to the Fighting Irish for the 2026 season. After a successful run with a record of 43-12 over four seasons, Freeman received an enhanced contract from the university. This announcement comes after speculation that he might be a candidate for NFL coaching vacancies. Freeman took to social media to share his excitement for the upcoming season, posting "2026...run it back. Go Irish."

Enhanced Contract and Commitment

Notre Dame's athletic director Pete Bevacqua has expressed his full support for Coach Freeman, calling him "the absolute best coach in the country for Notre Dame." The university has made it clear that they value Freeman's contributions and are committed to keeping him at the helm of the football program. This new contract is seen as a testament to Notre Dame's dedication to Freeman's success and the importance of college football for the university.

Future Prospects for Notre Dame Football

With Freeman's return, Notre Dame can look forward to building on the successes of the previous seasons. The Fighting Irish will retain key players like quarterback CJ Carr while also preparing for the departure of standout players like All-America running back Jeremiyah Love, who has declared for the NFL draft. Freeman's leadership and coaching prowess will be crucial as Notre Dame aims to continue its strong performance in college football.