Al Golden: Bengals DC Again

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Post on Jan 24, 2025

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Al Golden: Bengals DC Again? A Deeper Dive into the Potential Return

The Cincinnati Bengals' defensive coordinator position has been a revolving door in recent years. With Lou Anarumo's departure seemingly imminent, speculation is rife about his replacement. One name consistently popping up? Al Golden. But is a return to Cincinnati truly on the cards? Let's delve into the possibilities and explore what a second stint as Bengals DC might entail.

Al Golden's Bengals History: A Quick Recap

Before we speculate about a potential return, let's briefly revisit Golden's previous role with the Bengals. He served as a tight ends coach under Zac Taylor from 2019 to 2021, contributing to the team's offensive growth and the development of key players. While not a defensive coordinator, his experience within the organization and his relationship with Taylor are significant factors to consider. This existing rapport could smooth the transition should he be offered the position.

Why Golden Makes Sense for the Bengals

Several arguments support the idea of Al Golden returning as defensive coordinator. His extensive coaching experience, spanning various roles and levels of college and professional football, provides a solid foundation. He possesses a deep understanding of defensive schemes and player development. Furthermore, his time with the Bengals already instilled familiarity with the team's culture and coaching staff, potentially minimizing the adjustment period.

Key Advantages of Golden's Potential Appointment:

• Existing Relationships: His established relationship with Zac Taylor and the Bengals organization could foster a seamless transition and efficient collaboration.
• Extensive Coaching Experience: His background encompasses various roles, giving him a holistic view of the game.
• Proven Track Record: While his past defensive coordinating experiences may not be universally lauded, they still demonstrate his capabilities.

The Challenges and Considerations

Despite the potential benefits, several factors could complicate a Golden appointment. The Bengals' defense needs a significant upgrade, and Golden's previous defensive coordinating roles haven't always yielded resounding success. Critics might point to inconsistencies in past performances as a cause for concern. The pressure to improve the defense immediately will be immense. The front office will need to carefully weigh these potential drawbacks against his existing advantages.

Alternative Candidates and the Competition

It's crucial to remember that Golden isn't the only candidate being considered. The Bengals will likely explore a wide range of options, and competition for the position will be fierce. Other potential candidates bring different strengths and experiences to the table, making the selection process even more complex.

What the Bengals Need in a Defensive Coordinator:

The ideal candidate needs to demonstrate a proven ability to:

• Develop young talent: The Bengals have several promising young defensive players who need nurturing and guidance.
• Implement a successful scheme: A clear, adaptable, and effective defensive strategy is vital.
• Foster team cohesion: A strong leader who can build a united and motivated defense is essential.

Conclusion: A Calculated Risk?

The question of whether Al Golden will return as Bengals DC remains unanswered. His appointment would undoubtedly represent a calculated risk. While his familiarity with the team and his extensive experience offer advantages, the inconsistencies in his previous defensive coordinating stints require careful consideration. Ultimately, the Bengals' decision will hinge on a thorough evaluation of all potential candidates and a comprehensive assessment of their suitability to address the team's specific defensive needs. The upcoming weeks and months will reveal whether Golden's name is truly in the running, and if so, whether he ultimately secures the role. Only time will tell if a reunion is on the horizon.