ESPN REPORT: Notre Dame Fighting Irish Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach Mike Denbrock Has Turned Down a Jaw-Dropping $10 Million Offer from the Alabama Crimson Tide, Choosing to Stay in South Bend
In a surprising twist that has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, ESPN is reporting that Notre Dame’s offensive coordinator and tight ends coach, Mike Denbrock, has rejected a stunning $10 million contract offer from the Alabama Crimson Tide. The offer, according to multiple sources, was designed to lure Denbrock to Tuscaloosa to help usher in a new era for Alabama following recent coaching transitions. Instead, Denbrock has chosen to remain in South Bend, reaffirming his commitment to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish program and head coach Marcus Freeman.
The news comes at a time when Alabama, still reeling from the retirement of legendary head coach Nick Saban and the departure of several key staff members, is aggressively rebuilding its coaching infrastructure. The Crimson Tide had reportedly identified Denbrock as a top target to revamp their offensive scheme and maintain the high-powered, balanced attack they’ve been known for in recent years. The $10 million offer was expected to include multi-year guarantees, performance bonuses, and control over offensive play-calling—a level of authority and compensation rarely offered to assistants.
However, sources close to Denbrock indicate that his decision was not financially motivated. Despite the eye-watering salary Alabama was prepared to pay, Denbrock cited loyalty, unfinished business, and a deep-rooted belief in the vision Marcus Freeman has for Notre Dame’s future as key reasons for his choice.
“This wasn’t about money,” one source close to the coach told ESPN. “Mike believes Notre Dame is building something special, and he wants to be a central part of that journey. He’s not interested in chasing short-term opportunities when he believes the long-term legacy at Notre Dame could be historic.”
Denbrock, who returned to Notre Dame in 2024 after a successful stint at LSU under Brian Kelly, has been instrumental in transforming the Irish offense into one of the most efficient units in college football. Under his guidance, Notre Dame saw marked improvements in quarterback development, offensive line consistency, and red zone scoring. His work with tight ends—historically a strength for the Irish—has continued to produce NFL-ready talent and bolster the team’s versatility on offense.
The significance of Denbrock’s decision can’t be overstated. With the transfer portal in full swing and NIL deals reshaping the landscape, coaching stability has become a premium commodity. By choosing to stay, Denbrock not only provides continuity for Notre Dame’s offensive unit but also sends a powerful message about the program’s internal culture and trajectory.
Freeman, who has long enjoyed a strong relationship with Denbrock dating back to their days together at Cincinnati, praised his coordinator’s decision.
“Mike’s loyalty and belief in what we’re building here speak volumes,” Freeman said in a statement. “We’re not just trying to win games—we’re trying to build something sustainable and meaningful. Having someone of Mike’s caliber committed to that mission is a massive win for all of us.”
The decision is expected to resonate well with both current players and recruits, many of whom have developed strong ties with Denbrock during the recruiting process. Stability in coaching staffs often plays a pivotal role in a player’s commitment, and Denbrock’s return adds further credibility to Notre Dame’s efforts on the trail.
Alabama, meanwhile, will have to pivot quickly to find an alternative to Denbrock. The Crimson Tide’s interest in him was reportedly due to his ability to adapt to different quarterback styles and his proven track record in maximizing offensive talent. With spring practices nearing conclusion, time is of the essence for Alabama’s new head coach as they look to finalize their staff.
Ultimately, Denbrock’s decision to turn down Alabama’s mega-offer is a rare example of a coach prioritizing loyalty and vision over a massive payday. And for Notre Dame, it signals a critical step forward as they aim to return to coll
ege football’s elite.