The Cincinnati Bengals missed the playoffs this year despite star quarterback Joe Burrow being a finalist for the Most Valuable Player award. Although Burrow and the offense put up impressive numbers, the defense consistently fell short. Consequently, Cincinnati decided it was time to part ways with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. The organization has now appointed Al Golden as the new defensive coordinator in hopes of returning to the Super Bowl and securing their first championship in franchise history.
“Our guy. Al Golden has been hired as our Defensive Coordinator,” the Bengals announced on their official Twitter page on Thursday.
Our guy.
Al Golden has been hired as our Defensive Coordinator. Read more → https://t.co/OXjiN9DHxW pic.twitter.com/4ibK1kmQRh
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) January 23, 2025
Fans expressed their opinions about the hire on social media, with one stating, “If this hire works out, Bengals win the Super Bowl. If this hire does not work out, we get to try stealing Mike Tomlin from the Steelers.” Another fan commented, “We did Lou dirty. Front office needs to be held accountable for their lack of help on defense.” Concerns were also raised about the decision-making process: “Instead of trying to get the best guy on the market, they get ‘their’ guy. Yep, checks out for this franchise. Always going back to the well instead of trying to get the best available. What’s the definition of insanity?” Moreover, one fan noted, “Hopefully they can draft better on that side of the ball to improve his chance at success. IMO that was the ultimate demise of Lou when depth got tested.” It’ll be interesting to see if Golden can make an immediate impact in Southwest Ohio.
