Some think Zac Taylor wouldn't go that route because he could be on the hot seat next year. "Why would Taylor hire a guy that could eventually be his replacement?" That's a line that multiple people have used over the past few days.
The Cincinnati Bengals aren’t likely to fire head coach Zac Taylor after his team missed the playoffs for the second straight season. But there are some compelling reasons for and against the idea after what has been a wild ride of ups and downs for the franchise since his arrival in 2019.
Taylor let go of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, offensive line coach Frank Pollack, defensive line coach Marion Hobby and linebackers coach James Bettcher.
DC Lou Anarumo took the fall for the team's disappointing 2024 season, but the onus now falls squarely on the head coach.
After six years with the Bengals, defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo was fired on Monday after Cincinnati's defense cratered in 2024
Bengals head coach Zac Taylor sends a message to the rest of the NFL if his team makes the playoffs after their Week 18 win
In order to claim the No. 7 spot, the Denver Broncos and the Miami Dolphins need to lose on Sunday. If the Bengals do make the postseason, coach Zac Taylor offered ablunt message to their potential opponents. "They're capable of everything," Taylor said. "They don't want us in this tournament, I promise you."
The Cincinnati Bengals made several coaching shakeups following their second straight season with no playoffs, including the firing of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
Cincinnati is moving quickly to work to hire Anarumo's replacement and, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, there are already two targets in sight.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor indicated he and his bosses are aligned heading into a pivotal offseason.
Following their 19-17 win over the Steelers, the Bengals' locker room was loud, players were hugging, music was playing and Zac Taylor made a point to personally congratulate everyone who played a role in the team's five-game winning streak that has kept their playoff hopes alive with one day remaining in the 2024 regular season.