Marcus Freeman playing career: Notre Dame Coach’s college stats, records and more

Marcus Freeman was hired to be the head coach of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish in 2021. He had previously been a defensive coordinator with the Purdue Boilermakers, Cincinnati Bearcats and Fighting Irish.

Freeman has thrived as Notre Dame's coach, guiding them to this year's CFP semifinals. Thus, it's time to look back at Freeman's playing career.

Marcus Freeman's playing career

Marcus Freeman was introduced to organized football at Wayne High School in Huber Heights, Ohio. Freeman thrived at Wayne High and was a multi-sport athlete, excelling primarily in football and track. His talents saw him get numerous college football offers, but he decided to attend Ohio State.

Freeman joined the Buckeyes for the 2004 college football season. The linebacker played in 12 games (no starts) and compiled a stat line of one solo tackle and three assisted tackles. The Buckeyes planned to use him more as a sophomore, but he suffered a season-ending knee injury in the season's first game.

Freeman came into the 2006 season with a chip on his shoulder, and it showed with the caliber of his performances. The linebacker started 11 out of 13 games and totaled 71 tackles, one sack, two interceptions and six pass deflections.

Freeman's fourth season with the Buckeyes was arguably his best, as he compiled a stat line of 66 solo tackles, 43 assisted tackles, 1.5 sacks and five pass deflections. He was named second-team All-Big Ten for his efforts.

Marcus Freeman's fifth season saw him record college career highs in assisted tackles (45), sacks (3.5) and fumble recoveries (one). He earned his second All-Big Ten second-team nod for his efforts.

Freeman declared for the 2009 NFL draft and was selected by the Chicago Bears in round five. He spent time with the Bears, Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans before he retired on May 1, 2010, due to a heart condition.

Freeman has become a collegiate coach, achieving success with the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. He is a recipient of the 2024 George Munger and Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Award.