The head coaching search in Pittsburgh didn’t begin when Mike Tomlin stepped down—it started well before. More than a week earlier, reports had already linked the Steelers to potential replacements, including Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, if an opening emerged.
“Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman seriously considered making the jump to the NFL, with multiple teams reaching out to gauge his interest, according to league sources,” Dianna Russini wrote via The Athletic on Jan. 3. “Though Freeman ultimately announced he’s staying at Notre Dame, there’s a strong belief around the league that this won’t be the last time his name is connected to NFL opportunities.