Lou Anarumo named Bengals defensive coordinator

The Cincinnati Bengals have finally filled the role of defensive coordinator, and Lou Anarumo will be the man in charge to take control of a struggling defense.

“I’ve always had great respect for Lou, and I know he is a tremendous defensive coach,” Bengals head coach Zac Taylor said Thursday. “He’s a great fit for what we want to build here in Cincinnati. Lou is an excellent communicator who the players will have great respect for, and he will get the best out of them.”

It was a growing concern who would eventually fill this role, as no one fit the qualifications Taylor desired. There were talks of former Oakland Raiders head coach Jack Del Rio wanting the job, but Taylor wasn’t keen on having him join his staff. Former head coach of the Denver Broncos Vance Joseph was rumored to be on the shortlist, but he ultimately accepted the responsibilities of managing the Arizona Cardinals defense. Prior to joining the AFC North franchise, Anarumo spent the 2018 season as defensive backs coach for the New York Giants.

Anarumo, 52, certainly has his work cut out for him at his new home. According to the NFL, the Bengals finished the 2018 season last in total defense (413.6 yards allowed per game), last against the pass (275.9 per game) and 30th in points allowed (28.4 per game).

Nonetheless, this is a fitting choice for both parties, as this reunites Anarumo and Taylor once again. Both held positions on the Miami Dolphins coaching staff from 2012-2015, per the NFL.

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