Marcus Freeman Reportedly Was Eyed by Steelers Amid Tomlin Buzz, Latest NFL Rumors

Before Marcus Freeman decided to stay at Notre Dame, the Pittsburgh Steelers were at least talking about potentially hiring him in the offseason if they were in the market for a new head coach.

Per The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the Steelers were among the NFL teams that had "internal discussions" about Freeman if Mike Tomlin decided to step down at the end of the season.

Freeman had been a popular name floating around for NFL jobs in the offseason. The New York Giants and Tennessee Titans had been mentioned as teams that might have interest in the 39-year-old.

Russini also cited the Cleveland Browns as a team that had internal discussions about Freeman.

Instead, Freeman took himself out of the running for any jobs on Dec. 29 by agreeing to a new contract with Notre Dame that makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in the country.

Sports Illustrated's Pat Forde reported that Freeman "informed two NFL franchises that had been in communication with him about their jobs that he was staying" with the Fighting Irish.

Despite some moments this season when the heat seemed to be getting turned up on Tomlin, including Steelers fans chanting for him to be fired during a blowout loss to the Buffalo Bills in Week 13, there has been no indication the organization was considering a change.

Tomlin signed a three-year extension in the summer of 2024 that ties him to Pittsburgh through the 2027 season. The deal includes a team option for the final year that must be exercised by March 1.

Amid all of the chatter around Tomlin, the Steelers have already secured their 19th consecutive non-losing season with him as head coach. They can clinch the AFC North and a playoff berth on Sunday with a win over the Baltimore Ravens.