CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bengals have fired defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
The firing comes after the Bengals missed the playoffs, despite having one of the league's best offenses.
Head coach Zac Taylor said in a press conference Monday that he felt like the team needed a change.
Zac Taylor on firing Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo: just felt like we needed a change…didn’t take decision likely…credits a lot of Bengals success to Anarumo. #Bengals @WCPO
— Marshall Kramsky (@marshallkramsky) January 6, 2025
The Bengals finished the year 9-8, while Joe Burrow led the league in passing touchdowns and passing yards, and Ja'Marr Chase won the triple crown, leading all receivers in touchdowns, yards and receptions. Bengals defensive lineman Trey Hendrickson also led the league in sacks.
Anarumo joined the Bengals as defensive coordinator in 2019, and was a crucial part of the team's Super Bowl run in 2021, even drawing interest from other team's for head coaching jobs.
The Bengals defense was 25th in the league in points and yards allowed per game this past season. Linebackers coach James Bettcher and defensive line coach Marion Hobby were also let go, along with offensive line coach Frank Pollack.
I asked Zac Taylor about the importance of hiring a new Defensive Coordinator with DC experience in the NFL: Taylor said he won’t rule anyone out because of experience. Also said experience could be a good thing because this is a team that is ready to win now. #Bengals @WCPO
— Marshall Kramsky (@marshallkramsky) January 6, 2025
Now, the Bengals will be tasked for picking coaches for next season and beyond.
