The Cincinnati Bengals have had a disappointing 2025 season to say the least.
Thanks to several reasons, most glaringly obvious, Joe Burrow missing almost two months with a foot injury, the Bengals are 4-10 and eliminated from playoff contention.
As of now, Zac Taylor is still the head coach in Cincy, but if the Bengals decide to part ways with Taylor, how attractive would that head coaching job become?
Bill Barnwell tabs Bengals as the most attractive head coaching opportunity
According to ESPN's Bill Barnwell, if the Bengals fire Taylor, the opening would be the most coveted opening across the league.
"Firing Taylor and hiring a defensive guru would be the biggest step the Bengals could take to win while they have Burrow in his peak. And though there will be offensive coaches desperate to work with Burrow, this should be an even more appealing job for defensive minds like Chargers DC Jesse Minter and Packers DC Jeff Hafley," wrote Barnwell.
"Turn the defense into even a league-average unit, and the Bengals would be a perennial playoff team. Mold it into a top-10 defense, and the Bengals would compete for Super Bowls."
To Barnwell's point, with Burrow under center, you don't necessarily need an offensive-minded head coach. Let a defensive expert come in and overhaul the porous Cincinnati defense.
Maybe then the Bengals can get back to their winning ways. After all, it was a tough and stingy defense that helped propel them to their Super Bowl appearance in 2021.
More Bengals news:
- Bengals urged to re-sign veteran contributor on a one-year, prove-it deal
- Bengals QB Joe Burrow clarifies 'fun' comments after demoralizing loss
- Adam Schefter says teams are 'taking notice' of Joe Burrow's recent comments
- Bengals predicted to find Trey Hendrickson replacement in 2026
- Bengals predicted to address position of dire need in 2026 mock draft