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Zac Taylor’s leash with the Bengals is running short as hot seat talk shifts away from DC Al Golden’s struggling defense

Cincinnati sits last in the AFC North with a trip to Baltimore on deck. The coaching staff's future may hinge on how the rest of the season unfolds.

By Ryan Roberts · A to Z Sports

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 3:35 PM

Key Things to Know

Scrutiny in Cincinnati is centered on head coach Zac Taylor rather than defensive coordinator Al Golden.
A to Z Sports reporter John Sheeran states Taylor has a short leash if Cincinnati misses the playoffs.
The Cincinnati Bengals currently sit last in the AFC North with a 3-2 record.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Ryan Roberts reports that Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor faces mounting scrutiny rather than defensive coordinator Al Golden. While Golden's defense has struggled recently, A to Z Sports reporter John Sheeran indicates the primary organizational focus is on Taylor's leadership following years of post-Super Bowl stagnation.

The Bengals currently sit at 3-2 and last in the AFC North entering a road matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Co-host Easton Freeze noted that Taylor could avoid dismissal with a strong finish, but another missed postseason could bring significant staff changes.

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