The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly in discussions with Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden for their vacant defensive coordinator position. This follows the recent firing of Lou Anarumo on January 6. Bengals head coach Zac Taylor, who previously worked with Golden as the linebackers coach, is keen on bringing him back. The Bengals only conducted two interviews during their search, and speculation arose that they were waiting for Golden's availability after Notre Dame's College Football Playoff.

Golden's defense at Notre Dame was impressive, yielding just 14.3 points per game this past season, ranking them among the top defenses nationally. His prior experience with the Bengals enhances his candidacy, and the team seems confident in his potential as their next defensive coordinator.