Marcus Freeman sounds off on Bears head coach job

The Chicago Bears are nearing the end of their first round of interviews in their search for a head coach. But there are some candidates, who were requested, that have yet to interview. That includes Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman, who Chicago reportedly did "extensive research for months on."

Ahead of the National Championship Game on Jan. 20, Freeman addressed the topic of a potential job opportunity with the Bears, where he made it clear his focus is on Monday night's game.

"The reality is, with team success comes individual recognition," Freeman said, via the Chicago Sun-Times. "To hear that the Bears have interest, it's humbling. It's the NFL. It's also a reminder that with team success comes individual success. I have put zero thought into coaching in the NFL. All my attention has just been getting this team prepared."

Freeman's comments make sense considering his focus remains on preparing his Notre Dame team to face the Ohio State in the biggest game of his career.

Freeman has been connected to Chicago's head coach opening for months now. Back in December, CBS Sports' Jonathan Jones and Fox Sports' Peter Schrager mentioned Freeman as a potential dark horse candidate for the job. Freeman would fit that "leader of men" type the Bears are searching for, but it's unclear whether he's interested.

While Freeman seems content with his place in South Bend -- especially after inking a four-year extension keeping him with Notre Dame through 2030 -- it'll be interesting to see if he were to accept an interview after Monday, especially if the Fighting Irish win a championship.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Marcus Freeman sounds off on Bears head coach job