After Notre Dame’s 34-23 loss to Ohio State in the national championship, defensive coordinator Al Golden emerged as a top candidate for the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive coordinator position. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Golden is the front-runner for the role. Following the game, Golden expressed that he was solely focused on the outcome of the championship, offering no comment on his potential future.
Golden’s Role at Notre Dame and NFL Experience
Golden has served as Notre Dame’s defensive coordinator for three seasons, helping the team maintain a top-25 defense during his tenure. Prior to joining the Fighting Irish, he was with the Bengals as their linebackers coach for two years, including their Super Bowl run in 2021. If Golden returns to Cincinnati, he would replace Lou Anarumo, who was let go by the Bengals after the 2024 season.
Should Golden leave, Notre Dame’s head coach Marcus Freeman will need to find a new defensive coordinator, marking Freeman’s fourth coordinator search since taking over. Freeman previously hired Gerad Parker as offensive coordinator and brought in Marty Biagi for special teams in 2022. In 2023, after Parker’s departure, Freeman hired Mike Denbrock from LSU. A defensive coordinator vacancy would add to Freeman’s ongoing adjustments to his coaching staff.
Golden Refused to Discuss NFL Move Throughout the Season
Golden was repeatedly asked throughout the season about his potential return to the NFL, but he consistently refused to comment. In January, after Anarumo’s firing, Golden denied having any discussions with the Bengals. He remained focused on his current responsibilities at Notre Dame, stating that he could not worry about anything other than the next game.
With the season now concluded, Golden must decide whether to leave for Cincinnati. If he does, it will result in Notre Dame’s fifth defensive coordinator change since 2017. Freeman would be tasked with replacing him, a crucial move to maintain the defensive strength that has been a cornerstone of the program under Golden’s leadership.
