Cincinnati Bengals down to two finalists for defensive coordinator job

On January 21, 2025By Littum

And then there were TWO!

I have strong sources that have confirmed with me that there are two finalists for the Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator job.

Patrick Graham is one of them. The former Yale defensive lineman, who was most recently the Raiders defensive coordinator, interviewed for the Bengals job last week.

He previously garnered interest from head coaches when he interviewed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the offseason. He has spent time with the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants and Las Vegas Raiders. His units are well-prepared and he’s been on NFL owners’ radars for a few years now.

Who is the other finalist?

Al Golden.

Notre Dame defensive coordinator is who I would consider the favorite for the job at this point.

His unit is a good reason why they are playing for the national championship. The former Penn State tight end also played for the New England Patriots during his playing days.

Golden was on Zac Taylor’s staff in 2020 and 2021, serving as the Bengals’ linebackers coach before taking the job at Notre Dame.

This year, he has coached circles around most of their opponents en route to becoming a finalist for the Broyles Award, which goes to the top assistant coach in the nation.

Notre Dame’s defense finished the regular season first in team pass efficiency defense, first in defensive touchdowns, third in scoring defense, fourth in passing yards allowed, fourth in interceptions and 10th in total defense.

I think Golden will be the Bengals’ next defensive coordinator.

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