Cincinnati (AP) — Upon his appointment as defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, Al Golden expressed his intention to hold his team to high standards during offseason training.
The Bengals have embraced his vision, particularly through organized team activities.
“We have the opportunity to push the limits of our fundamental skills. We can explore how effectively we can grasp various concepts. This is crucial and will be invaluable in training camp,” Golden remarked. “While this phase isn’t as physical as training camp might be, it serves as a critical stepping stone for us, laying a strong foundation. Without this segment, it’s challenging to start from where we want, so there’s a sense of urgency for us now.”
Urgency has been a recurring theme throughout the Bengals’ offseason. After finishing last season with a five-game winning streak, they just fell short of the playoffs with a record of 9-8.
Cincinnati struggled at the beginning of their last three seasons, experiencing losses in their first three games. This includes last year’s 0-3 start and a 4-8 standing before some late-season recoveries.
Although there are limitations on contact during optional training, Golden has maximized their time on the field and in the classroom to ensure that everyone is aligned.
This focus on teamwork, especially in the secondary positions, emphasizes understanding everyone’s roles, enabling players to adjust rapidly during plays.
“In those unit meetings, seeing the pre-practice efforts and their cohesion as a group is inspiring,” Coach Zach Taylor stated. “Al has done a fantastic job in establishing standards for that room. I’m genuinely excited about the potential for that group because their position coach is right in line with me.”
Golden previously served as the Bengals’ linebacker coach during the 2020 and 2021 seasons and has three years of experience as defensive coordinator. The ten players he coached at Notre Dame were selected in the 2023, 2024, and 2025 NFL Drafts.
Joe Burrow led the league in passing, while Ja’Marr Chase ranked as the sixth-best wide receiver during the Super Bowl era, achieving a triple crown with his league-leading receptions, yards, and touchdowns.
Last season, the Bengals lost four games where they scored at least 30 points, joining the ranks of the 2002 and ’18 Kansas City Chiefs.
However, the defense allowed the fifth-most points in the league (414), with a 67.9% touchdown rate on opponents’ red zone possessions, the third worst in the NFL. They also finished eighth in missed tackles with 117.
One area where the Bengals excelled defensively was in forcing turnovers, achieving 25 takeaways, which tied for seventh in the league. Golden aims for even more by implementing four turnover stations to help players refine their skills in creating fumbles and interceptions.
“It’s about continuously adding layers to your game until it becomes second nature. By the time training camp comes around, you’re instinctively going for the ball. It’s beneficial not only for defense but for the offense as well,” linebacker Logan Wilson explained.
Early signs of defensive progress are also emerging. Cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt, who has been versatile within the secondary, was involved in intercepting a pass from Joe Burrow intended for tight end Mike Gesicki on Tuesday.
“We can move anywhere. You just can’t predict what we’re doing with our coverage disguises,” Taylor-Britt noted.
Golden continues with his install even with several key players absent. All-Pro selection and NFL sack leader Trey Hendrickson did not participate in voluntary training as he seeks a contract extension. First-round draft pick Stewart and second-round pick Demetrius Knight Jr. are present but have not entered practice due to unsigned rookie contracts or exemptions.
“Trey is a professional. For those who miss his presence now, I guarantee that he’ll be ready to contribute by the time everything gets resolved,” Golden stated.
___
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Source: apnews.com