Former Bengals DC Lou Anarumo to Join Colts Coaching Staff

Fired Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has reportedly joined the Indianapolis Colts. Per NFL Insider Ari Meirov, "The #Colts are hiring former #Bengals DC Lou Anarumo as their new DC. A major hire in Indy."

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Anarumo, the former defensive coordinator for the Bengals, is reportedly in final negotiations to join the Colts in the same role, marking a significant shift in both his career and the Colts' defensive strategy.

Anarumo, who helped lead the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in 2021, was let go after a couple of tough seasons.

Despite early success, including a standout defensive performance in the 2021 AFC Championship that helped Cincinnati reach Super Bowl LVI, the Bengals' defense struggled in recent years.

Under Anarumo's leadership, the team's defense fell to 26th in points allowed per drive and ranked poorly in red zone efficiency in 2023 and 2024, contributing to their failure to make the playoffs in those years.

While Anarumo was reportedly a finalist for the Arizona Cardinals head coaching job earlier last offseason, he'll now try to revive a Colts defense that has similarly underperformed.

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The Colts have missed the playoffs in the past two seasons, largely due to defensive struggles. With Gus Bradley out as defensive coordinator, the Colts saw Anarumo as a top candidate to help turn their defense around, especially with the AFC South remaining one of the NFL's weaker divisions.

If Anarumo can rejuvenate the Colts' defense, the team could quickly become a playoff contender.

Anarumo's move to Indianapolis comes after Cincinnati decided to part ways with him at the end of the 2024 season, along with other coaching staff changes. The Bengals also let go of fired Frank Pollack, offensive line coach and run game coordinator, defensive line coach Marion Hobby, and linebackers coach James Bettcher.

The Bengals, once a strong defensive unit, hope that a new approach will help them get back to their winning ways. For Anarumo, the Colts provide an opportunity to redeem himself and prove that his defensive acumen can bring success in a new environment.

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