Al Golden Returns to Bengals as Defensive Coordinator; Expected to Sign Thursday

Jan 22, 2025, 09:29 PM

Al Golden, Notre Dame's defensive coordinator, is set to become the Cincinnati Bengals' new defensive coordinator. Golden, who previously served as the Bengals' linebackers coach from 2020 to 2021 and helped lead the team to Super Bowl LVI, is finalizing a deal and is expected to arrive at the Bengals facility on Thursday to sign his contract. He has informed Notre Dame officials of his decision and still owns a home in the Cincinnati area. The Bengals had paused their search out of respect for Notre Dame's season, which concluded with a loss in the National Championship game. Head coach Zac Taylor identified Golden as his top candidate and has now moved forward to bring him back to Cincinnati. Under Golden's leadership, Notre Dame's defense achieved top national rankings, including a No. 2 ranking in scoring defense. Golden's return aims to strengthen the Bengals' defensive unit.