Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden is set to join the Cincinnati Bengals, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. This move comes two days after the Fighting Irish lost to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff National Championship game. Golden, 55, will replace Lou Anarumo, who was fired after leading the defense for six seasons.
Golden’s return marks his second stint with Zac Taylor’s coaching staff. He previously worked as the Bengals’ linebackers coach during the 2020 and 2021 seasons. Under Golden’s leadership, the team reached the Super Bowl in 2022, led by a defense that allowed just 1.21 points per drive.
This season, Anarumo faced significant challenges, including an aging roster and key injuries. Despite a five-game winning streak to close the regular season, the defense struggled overall, finishing near the bottom of several key categories. Golden will need to improve upon this performance as he takes the reins.
The Bengals are looking to build around quarterback Joe Burrow and wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, who both had standout seasons. With a new defensive coordinator in place, the team is aiming to end its two-year playoff drought.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/43523787/sources-notre-dame-al-golden-returns-bengals-dc