As the New York Giants embark on a head coaching search following Brian Daboll’s abrupt mid-season dismissal, conflicting reports have emerged about their strategy.Some insiders claim the team will steer clear of college coaches to prioritize NFL experience, while others insist general manager Joe Schoen will leave no stone unturned in pursuit of cultural renewal and fresh energy.Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman, 39, has surfaced as a speculative wildcard, with the Giants reportedly holding him in “high regard” for his rapid ascent, aggressive defensive schemes, and player-empowering style — qualities that align with the franchise’s needs.Since taking over as Fighting Irish head coach in 2021 after a stint as defensive coordinator, Freeman has engineered a College Football Playoff contender from the Midwest, drawing NFL eyes.Addressing the buzz in a recent interview with Brandon London of the New York Post, Freeman expressed profound gratitude without fueling speculation.”I think the gratitude you have for one, even being mentioned by an organization like that. You know, I got a lot of respect for all NFL teams, but you know, the history of the Giants is tremendous,” he said. “It’s gratitude for me. It reminds me of the honor that I have to be in the position I have, you know? And I’ve said that before. I use that to remind myself of the gratitude that I have for this position.”Freeman framed the attention as validation of his program’s grind.”It’s a reminder for me that the people in our program, the work they put in — we all put in — to have an output that’s been pretty successful these past couple years,” he said. “The result of that is having your name mentioned for a place like the New York Giants or any other major program. It’s humbling, but I always use it as a reminder to be grateful for what I have because if you’re not grateful for it, I often say you’re going to lose it.”Freeman’s measured response underscores his appeal as a poised leader, though it’s unclear if Schoen will formally pursue an interview.For now, the Giants’ intrigue highlights Freeman’s transformative impact at Notre Dame, where success has made him a name to watch — collegiate boundaries notwithstanding.This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Marcus Freeman ‘humbled’ by New York Giants holding him in high regard