Former Buccaneers QB points out flawed logic behind Chicago Bears’ rumored interest in Marcus Freeman

Chris Simms gave his take on Pro Football Talk by questioning the wisdom behind the Chicago Bears' potential pursuit of Notre Dame HC Marcus Freeman. The former NFL quarterback highlighted concerns about the timing and fit for both parties.

Simms, a former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback turned analyst, brings a valuable perspective to the discussion. Marcus Freeman, meanwhile, stands on the precipice of college football history as he prepares Notre Dame for their first national championship game since 1988.

Speaking on Pro Football Talk on January 13, 2025, Simms addressed the recent NFL Network report about Chicago's interest in Freeman. His comments came amid news that the Bears had conducted "extensive research" on the 39-year-old coach;

"I would go, why would either one of you really want to do that right now? Like the bears. If I'm the bears, I'm going to go away. This is Marcus Freeman's first real year of like, on the scene. Hey, I'm the man. And watch out. Here we go. You're going Really? Just going to go like, Hey, one year you're head coach. Boom, right off the bat," said Simms. [00:01:37]

The Bears' interest comes at a critical juncture. They hold the No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, who struggled through a 5-12 season in 2024. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that while Chicago "wants to interview" Freeman. But it appears unlikely he would consider NFL opportunities before Notre Dame's championship clash with Ohio State on January 20.

Notre Dame's rising stock under Marcus Freeman

COLLEGE FOOTBALL: JAN 09 CFP Semifinal Capital One Orange Bowl - Notre Dame vs Penn State - Source: Getty

Simms emphasized Notre Dame's strengthening position in college football's hierarchy;

"Wait, you just got this on lockdown and Notre Dame. You got Notre Dame NIL Right. We're seeing the playing fields been leveled. The SEC might not be the same ever again," he pointed out.

Marcus Freeman's rapid rise has been remarkable. He's compiled a 33-9 record at Notre Dame and made history as the first Black and Asian American coach to lead a team to the College Football Playoff National Championship. Currently at 14-1 this season, the Fighting Irish have defeated powerhouses like Indiana, Georgia, and Penn State.

The timing of Chicago's interest presents a fascinating paradox. While Freeman's defensive expertise helped build his reputation, the Bears' primary focus remains developing Williams, their franchise quarterback. With several offensive-minded candidates already interviewed. This includes Lions' Ben Johnson and Ravens' Todd Monken. The Bears' pursuit of Marcus Freeman suggests they're casting a wide net in their search for Matt Eberflus's replacement.