Pro Football Rumors
Al Golden is indeed set to return to the NFL in 2025. Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator is finalizing an agreement to take that same role with the Bengals, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Cincinnati moved on from Lou Anarumo after the season, one in which the team’s defensive shortcomings played a key role in a 9-8 record and a failure to reach the playoffs. Anarumo has since moved on to the Colts as their new DC, with the Bengals being connected to a handful of replacement candidates. Golden recently emerged as the favorite, though.
The 55-year-old had been in place at Notre Dame since 2022, serving as the program’s defensive coordinator for each of the past three years. The Fighting Irish advanced to the CFP national title game, so it was not until Monday’s loss that Golden was able to work out an agreement for an NFL gig. Reports from yesterday confirmed the Bengals were expected to hire him to take charge of their defense, with an interview set to take place later in the week. Even without that taking place, Golden is set to make a return to Cincinnati.
More to come…
