Marcus Freeman is still putting together his staff and it seems like he has found his next linebackers coach in former Ohio State teammate James Laurinaitis. The “Little Animal” was a two-time defense player of the year in the Big Ten, a three-time consensus All-American, along with winning the Lott Trophy, Butkus Award and Bronko Nagurski Trophy.
His career was definitely decorated, playing in the NFL for 8 season as well before transitioning into the commentator booth. Freeman looks to have lured his former Buckeye teammate back to the sidelines with him. This, in my estimation, would be another fantastic hire on Freeman’s staff that is looking like they will use their Buckeye ties to try and create what they had in Columbus during their playing tenure together.
James Laurinaitis leaving the booth to join Marcus Freeman staff at Notre Dame hurts not going to lie.
— jbook™ (@jbook37) December 31, 2021
Former Ohio State linebacker James Laurinaitis is expected to join Marcus Freeman's coaching staff at Notre Dame: https://t.co/DcLBsuZHoP
— Andrew Lind (@AndrewMLind) December 31, 2021
SOURCES: Former Ohio State LB, James Laurinaitis, is in serious talks to join Marcus Freeman's staff at Notre Dame. Most likely would be an off-field analyst but an on-field coaching job is possible too. The two played together at OSU#NotreDame #GoIrish #FreemanEra #Buckeyes
— College Football Watcher (@CFBWatcher) December 31, 2021