Al Golden

Defensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Bengals (CIN).

Quick Facts

• Role: Defensive Coordinator
• Team: Cincinnati Bengals (CIN)
• NFL experience: 33 years
• Reports to: Zac Taylor (Head Coach)
• Coaching tree: see Coaching Trees

Background

Al Golden completed his first season as the Bengals' defensive coordinator and his 33rd as a coach in 2025. A former linebackers coach for the Bengals from 2020-21, he returned to Cincinnati following three seasons ('22-24) as defensive coordinator at the University of Notre Dame.

Scheme & Fantasy Angle

As defensive coordinator, Golden directs the Bengals' defense; the unit's effectiveness shapes game scripts that influence how often Cincinnati's high-powered offense is on the field.