Cincinnati Bengals Make Defensive Coordinator Change: Al Golden Replaces Lou Anarumo
The Cincinnati Bengals have made a significant move within their coaching staff, with reports confirming the hiring of Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator, Al Golden, to take over the reins as their new defensive coordinator. This decision comes in the wake of the Bengals parting ways with Lou Anarumo at the end of their recent season. Anarumo has swiftly found a new home with the Indianapolis Colts as their defensive coordinator, making for a series of coaching changes in the NFL.
Golden’s appointment to the Bengals follows closely on the heels of Notre Dame’s participation in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game against Ohio State, where they unfortunately succumbed to defeat. Notably, Golden previously served as Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator between 2022 and 2024, showcasing his expertise in the realm of collegiate football. His return to Cincinnati marks a reunion with the organization, having previously worked as the linebackers coach under head coach Zac Taylor from 2020 to 2021.
The incoming defensive coordinator boasts a diverse coaching background, having held coaching positions in the NFL with the Detroit Lions as both the linebackers coach (2018-2019) and tight ends coach (2016-2017). Prior to his NFL tenure, Golden held head coaching roles at the University of Miami from 2011 to 2015 and at Temple from 2006 to 2010, highlighting his pedigree in developing defensive strategies and player talent.
Golden steps into his new role at a time when the Bengals’ defense has faced challenges, with a notable decline in performance since his previous tenure as linebackers coach. Following a Super Bowl appearance in the 2021 season, the Bengals saw their defensive ranking slip to 31st in yards allowed per game in 2023, signaling an area in need of attention and improvement.
In the seasons that followed, the Bengals continued to grapple with defensive inconsistencies, ranking 25th in yards allowed per game in 2024 despite the offensive prowess of standout players like Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase. Missing out on the playoffs in 2025 would undoubtedly be a setback for a team with aspirations of contending, emphasizing the urgency for defensive adjustments beyond mere coaching changes.
Golden’s return to the Bengals signifies a strategic effort to revitalize and fortify the team’s defensive capabilities, aiming to address the challenges that have plagued their performance in recent seasons. With a blend of collegiate and NFL coaching experience, Golden brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, poised to implement a fresh defensive approach that could potentially elevate the Bengals’ competitiveness in the league.
As the Bengals gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on how Golden’s leadership and defensive acumen shape the team’s trajectory. With a roster boasting offensive firepower and a passionate fan base hungry for success, the stakes are high for the Bengals to recalibrate their defensive identity and mount a formidable challenge in the competitive
