Overview
- Freeman announced his plan to stay by posting "2026…run it back" on X on Dec. 29.
- Sports Illustrated’s Pat Forde reported Freeman told two NFL franchises he would remain at Notre Dame, with the Giants and Titans among teams that had shown interest.
- Notre Dame confirmed a restructured agreement that adds a year to his deal and elevates his pay into the sport’s upper tier, with financial terms undisclosed.
- Athletic director Pete Bevacqua has described Freeman’s contract as a "living, breathing" document and pledged to keep him at the top of the college pay scale.
- Freeman is 43-12 at Notre Dame after a 2024 national title game appearance and a 10-2 2025 season that ended outside the CFP, and the decision comes ahead of the Jan. 2 transfer portal window as the Irish prepare for 2026 with quarterback CJ Carr returning.