Zac Taylor describes the missing ingredient the Cincinnati Bengals now have after spending years without it
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor knows his defense needs to take leaps forward this year. It’s why the unit is now comprised of the right veterans around younger starters.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor calls plays for the offense of his football team. He also knows when his defense falls short, it’s a reflection on him.
It’s imperative the defense matches the usually prolific offense this year. All bets are for what the 2027 Bengals will look like, and who will coach them, if they fall short of the postseason like they have for the last three years.
So what makes this year’s defense any different? According to Taylor, a special blend that hasn’t been seen in a few years.
Zac Taylor highlights veterans leading youngsters
Everyone has seen what Cincinnati has done to its defense this offseason. Defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, safety Bryan Cook, DT Dexter Lawrence, and defensive end Boye Mafe are set to play significant snaps. S Kyle Dugger and nickelback Ja’Sir Taylor pushing for notable roles themselves.
It’s not just their physical abilities that will make an impact. In a recent interview on The Rich Eisen Show, Taylor expects the influx of veterans will help spur further development of the younger homegrown starters of the unit.
“We put ourselves in a really good spot,” Taylor said. “I’ve been through a lot of seasons where expectations are high, and think you got it, but you got to put in the work to be able to do that. And I really like our team chemistry across the board. I really like it on that side of the ball. I think we’ve added some real veteran leadership with a lot of guys we have. That’s not only going to infuse it into the team, but it’s going to help bring along a lot of the young guys on that side of the ball that we’re really counting on to continue to take the next step.
“I just like the blend of experience we have over there,” Taylor continued. “And I’m really excited to see that group come together and make some plays for us.”
The missing ingredient
The Bengals have been trying to field two different kinds of defenses the last three years. From 2023-24, the last years with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Cincy tried getting as much out of its vets from the 2021-22 squads without incorporating much younger talent. Those vets, such as Sam Hubbard, Von Bell, and Germaine Pratt, just weren’t as effective on the field as they used to be.
Last year was a stark shift. Al Golden took over as DC and attempted to revitalize the unit by featuring several more younger and inexperienced starters. Their youth and inexperience showed, and the lack of veteran leadership around them only made matters worse.
Both versions lacked leaders in their prime. That’s no longer the case with the 2026 team.
Cook is coming off his best year and should be pushing for captain status. Lawrence is still a high-quality force in the middle of the defensive line. Mafe is now inline for the snaps he needs to translate his talent into production. Allen and Dugger are a bit on the older side, but are commanding roles that fits where they are in their respective careers.
Every addition Cincinnati made this offseason was a step in the right direction. The defense now has competent starters that can lead the rest. The younger starters can have confidence their new teammates will do their jobs, and help them make their jobs easier.
The Bengals are following recipe for matching their high expectations. It’s up to Taylor and Co. to cook.