South Bend, IN – In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman has reportedly turned down a jaw-dropping $7.5 million offer to become the next offensive coordinator at the University of Georgia — a stunning decision first reported by ESPN. Freeman, who has led the Fighting Irish since 2022, made it clear he has no intention of leaving the storied program, despite serious interest from multiple Power Five schools, including Georgia and Baylor.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Georgia extended a lucrative offer that would have made Freeman the highest-paid assistant coach in college football history. The offer, which included significant incentives and multi-year security, was part of an aggressive push by the Bulldogs to strengthen their coaching staff after recent turnover on the offensive side of the ball.
However, Freeman was unmoved by the offer, stating publicly, “I have no plans beyond being the head coach of Notre Dame. This is where I belong, and I’m fully committed to continuing the legacy and mission of this great university and football program.”
Freeman’s rejection of such a lucrative deal has been met with admiration and praise, particularly from the Notre Dame community, where he has quickly become a beloved figure. In just a short time, he has helped build a strong culture centered on discipline, development, and integrity. Under his leadership, Notre Dame has seen continued success on the field and an uptick in recruiting, with several top prospects committing to the Irish over SEC and Big Ten powerhouses.
The move also sends a strong message about Freeman’s long-term vision. Rather than chase the allure of SEC dollars or a high-profile coordinator role, he has chosen stability and purpose over flash and fortune.
College football analysts were stunned by the news, with some calling it one of the most “admirable” decisions in recent memory. ESPN’s Paul Finebaum called the decision “rare and refreshing,” adding that “Freeman’s commitment to Notre Dame shows the kind of character we don’t often see in this business anymore.”
Baylor was also reportedly in pursuit, viewing Freeman as a potential head coaching candidate to bring fresh energy to the program following recent struggles. However, their outreach, like Georgia’s, was quickly rebuffed.
Freeman’s loyalty is particularly notable in an era where coaching changes are frequent and big-money deals often dictate decisions. While many in his position might have used such offers as leverage or stepping stones, Freeman instead reinforced his dedication to the Notre Dame brand, its players, and its fans.
For now, the Fighting Irish faithful can breathe a sigh of relief. Marcus Freeman isn’t going anywhere — and in doing so, he just might have made his biggest statement yet as the face of Notre Dame football.
More details to follow as this story co
ntinues to develop.
