The Cincinnati Bengals fired their Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo following six seasons with the franchise. The Bengals went 9-8 and almost made the playoffs as the No. 7 seed but unfortunately, the Denver Broncos got it done and made the playoffs instead. The Bengals made a great run toward the end of the season and were one of the best teams in the AFC finishing the regular season on a five-game winning streak.
Cincinnati Bengals Fire Defensive Coordinator
The Cincinnati Bengals suffered a poor start to the season that was plagued by poor play, contributing to the 1-4 record they fell into over the first month. Much of that was due to the defense, which surrendered 25.5 points per game throughout the regular season tied for fifth-most in the NFL. Cincinnati’s defense struggled to get off the field on third downs allowing a 42% conversion rate. This ranked them 30th in the league and opposing teams scored touchdowns on 67% of red zone trips.
However, Anarumo is a respected defensive coordinator and helped the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in 2021. In 2022, Cincinnati’s defense ranked sixth in total points allowed and eighth in takeaways, so his ability to coach elite units shouldn’t go unnoticed. He should easily find a job for the 2025 NFL season. Anarumo’s possible landing spots might be in the NFC with the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Chicago Bears.
Not only did Head Coach Zac Taylor let go of Lou Anarumo but he also let go of Offensive Line Coach Frank Pollack, Linebackers Coach James Bettcher, and Defensive Line Coach Marion Hobby. The Cincinnati Bengals will look for new coaches to help them get back into the playoffs next season, after being contenders for the past three seasons. The Bengals have a high-powered offense with Quarterback Joe Burrow, Wide Receivers Tee Higgins, and Ja’Marr Chase. They need a defense though to make it anywhere in the NFL.
Final Thoughts
Meanwhile, Head Coach Zac Taylor will be looking for new coaches. There are big names of former defensive head coaches on the list, and there could also be coaches from off the radar in the college ranks to watch. Taylor has aimed for coaches with notable experience, but still ascending and hungry in their career aspirations, with most of his hires.
