Cincinnati Bengals Fire Defensive Coordinator Lou Anarumo, Three Other Coaches

The Cincinnati Bengals have parted ways with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo and three other assistant coaches following a disappointing 2024 season.

The Cincinnati Bengals underwent a significant coaching overhaul on Monday, parting ways with four members of their staff. Defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, 58, was among those let go, along with offensive line coach Frank Pollack, 57, defensive line coach Marion Hobby, 58, and linebackers coach James Bettcher, 46.

Lou Anarumo had served as the Bengals' defensive coordinator since 2019, when head coach Zac Taylor was hired. During his tenure, the team experienced notable success, including winning the AFC Championship in 2021. Anarumo's achievements had not gone unnoticed, as he was pursued for head coaching positions by other teams, but he ultimately chose to remain with the Bengals.

The Cincinnati Bengals' 2024 season ended in disappointment, as they narrowly missed a playoff spot due to wins by the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday. The Bengals finished the season with a 9-8 record.

The team's defensive struggles were a major factor in their inability to secure a playoff berth. Cincinnati's defense ranked 25th overall, conceding an average of 25.5 points per game, which placed them 26th in the league. Notably, the Bengals lost four one-score games, in each of which they allowed at least 34 points.

Despite these defensive shortcomings, the Bengals demonstrated a knack for generating turnovers. They tied for sixth-most takeaways in the league, with 15 interceptions and 10 fumble recoveries. However, Cincinnati's pass defense ranked 21st, while their run defense ranked 19th.

Defensive end Trey Hendrickson was a bright spot for the Bengals, leading the league with 17.5 sacks. Nevertheless, the team's overall sack total was a modest 36, ranking them 25th in the league.

Frank Pollack had served as the Bengals' offensive line coach and run game coordinator since 2019. Marion Hobby held the position of defensive line coach since 2021, while James Bettcher took the reins as linebackers coach in 2022.