Cincinnati Bengals coaching tracker: Rumors, news, and more info on all assistant candidates

Here’s everything you need to know on the Bengals’ search for a new defensive coordinator, offensive line coach, and more!

Even though the Cincinnati Bengals finished the season with a winning record (9-8) and on a five-game win streak, the fact the defense and much of the offensive line were huge liabilities through much of the season caused them to miss the NFL Playoffs.

In doing so, the front office was spurred into action. They fired defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, as well as a couple of defensive position coaches and offensive-line coach Frank Pollack.

They also fired defensive line coach Marion Hobby, linebacker coach James Bettcher, defensive quality control coach Louie Cioffi, and defensive assistant Mark Duffner as well.

Now, the search is on for a new defensive coordinator, who will bring in his own position and assistant coaches, as well as a new coach for the offensive line.

Here’s what we know so far:

Bengals Coaching Search Tracker

• It has been reported that Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden is the frontrunner to be named the team’s newest defensive coordinator.
• That same report says the other candidate is Raiders defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
• In an exclusive interview with Cincy Jungle’s John Acree, former Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer shared his fondness for the city and said he would be happy to come back.
• Report on the Bengals being interested in former Bears head coach Matt Eberfluss as their new DC.
• Reports the Bengals might be interested in Michigan defensive coordinator Wink
• Martindale, but that’s been refuted.
• Head coach Zac Taylor’s comments on the changes to his coaching staff.
• The report on the team moving on from Cioffi and Duffner.
• The initial report of the first wave of firings, which included Anarumo, Pollack, Hobby, and Bettcher.
• Lou Anarumo is drawing interest throughout the NFL.
• The Bengals were not expected to interview Robert Saleh or Dennis Allen.
• The Bengals interviewed Patriots defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington.

Follow along as news breaks for the latest on the Bengals’ coaching search.