The Indianapolis Colts find themselves at a pivotal moment as an organization. Young quarterback Anthony Richardson has had his ups and downs, failing to perform at the level expected of an NFL starter, which contributed to the Colts missing the playoffs in a season where they aimed to compete for the AFC South. To turn things around, the Colts are implementing significant changes, including the dismissal of their previous defensive coordinator. Now, according to an NFL insider, they have found his replacement.
“The (Colts) are hiring former (Bengals) DC Lou Anarumo as their new DC. A major hire in Indy,” reported Ari Meirov at the beginning of the week.
The #Colts are hiring former #Bengals DC Lou Anarumo as their new DC. A major hire in Indy. pic.twitter.com/nAEzVlevQX
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) January 20, 2025
Reactions from fans on social media have varied. One fan commented, “Happy for Lou, biggest reason he is no longer in Cincy was his inability to develop any of the 14 defensive players Cincinnati drafted in the last 3 years. If you have an established defense, he will succeed.” Another supporter stated, “Cincy shouldn’t have fired him; a year ago, with a better roster, their defense was top 10 in the league. Injuries on the offense prevented them from playing the Chiefs in the AFC championship. Indy got a good one.”
Responses continued with fans pointing out challenges, such as injuries that plagued the Bengals. “Yes, the Cincy defense was bad THIS year, but he also lost CB2 and CB3 to injury, LB1 for a lot of the year, and DT1 to a mystery illness. Edge 2 and 3 also suffered injuries after the FO let key pieces leave, trying to fill them with young players who aren’t living up to expectations,” remarked one fan. Others expressed cautious optimism, with one saying, “Potentially a really good hire. Lou was one of the best DCs in the league a couple of years ago. The question is whether he lost his edge or if he was just not given the pieces to succeed this year.” Another added, “Actually, not a bad hire. I know Cincy let him go, but for different reasons. Especially with the team we have now, we (the Bengals) need a win now OC and DC. But Lou is still a great DC, and for a team in need of a rebuild, he’ll do great!”
It’ll be interesting to see how this hire unfolds.
