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. Golden has informed the school of his decision, ESPN’s Pete Thamel adds.
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 transpiring, Golden is set to make a return to Cincinnati.
Prior to his stint at Notre Dame, Golden had a two-year span as the Bengals’ linebackers coach. Having thus worked under Zac Taylor previously, this deal marks a reunion between the two. Golden also has experience in that same role with the Lions in addition to other college coaching positions, including head coaching jobs at Temple and Miami.
The Bengals are also set to bring in Jerry Montgomery as their new defensive line coach, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic reports. Montgomery, 45, has considerable experience at the college and pro levels coaching D-linemen. He worked with the Patriots in 2024, but with Mike Vrabel coming to New England the team has made a number of staff chances. Now, Montgomery will join Golden in Cincinnati for the coming campaign.
Dealing with notable injuries at the cornerback spot in particular, the Bengals finished the year ranked 25th in both points and yards allowed in 2024. Room for improvement exists in several departments on that side of the ball as Cincinnati looks to replicate its offensive production from this past season. The latter effort may be a challenge, but taking a step forward on defense would make the Golden hire an effective one and help steer the team back toward the postseason.
Via PFR’s coordinator search tracker, here is a final look at how things shook out for the Bengals:
- DeMarcus Covington, defensive coordinator (Patriots): Interviewed
- Matt Eberflus, former head coach (Bears): Mentioned as candidate
- Al Golden, defensive coordinator (Notre Dame): To be hired
- Patrick Graham, defensive coordinator (Raiders): Interviewed
- Wink Martindale, defensive coordinator (Michigan): Rumored candidate