It was beyond any doubt that the Chicago Bears coaching search would be large and comprehensive. GM Ryan Poles said as much during his end-of-season press conference. Names would be involved that might shock some people. He's been as good as his word so far, with Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell being some of the bigger surprises. Add another to the list. Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the Bears are hoping to speak with Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman about the job at some point in the near future.
This is a surprise for several reasons. For one, Freeman is another college coach. The Bears haven't hired one since 1930. Another is that he recently signed a lucrative extension with Notre Dame. One would think he'd have no interest in going somewhere else. Yet the Bears should be at least intrigued by him. He took a program that had clearly plateaued under head coach Brian Kelly and turned them into a disciplined, physical team that battled its way to the national title game. Throw in the fact he was drafted by the Bears in 2009 and it's easy to see the appeal.
Ryan Poles is smart to at least speak with Freeman.
The man has invigorated a program many felt was stuck in its ways. After Kelly left for LSU, it was considered a likely dip into obscurity. Instead, Freeman has adapted the program to the new realities of the NIL era. His players are tough, well-coached, and relentless in their effort. No wonder Ryan Poles is interested. The 39-year-old embodies many of the traits he laid out in his criteria for the next coach. However, prying him away from Notre Dame feels like a tall order. He loves it there. Also, it would require a lot of money to make happen. Chicago isn't prone to ponying up for head coaches. Freeman would really have to blow them away in the interview, presuming he takes it.
