Bengals retaining head coach Zac Taylor, personnel executive Duke Tobin for 2026 season

The Cincinnati Bengals announced they will retain head coach Zac Taylor and player personnel chief Duke Tobin for the 2026 season, despite finishing 6-11 and missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. Owner Mike Brown expressed confidence in their ability to lead the team towards achieving championship success. Taylor's tenure includes leading the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2021 season, but the team has not returned to the playoffs since then.

Quarterback Joe Burrow's injuries have been a significant factor in the team's struggles, with his 2025 season disrupted by a turf toe injury that sidelined him until Thanksgiving. The Bengals managed only one win in Burrow's absence, relying on veteran Joe Flacco after acquiring him in a trade with the Cleveland Browns. Defensive issues have also plagued the team, prompting Taylor to replace defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo with Al Golden, though improvements were only seen later in the 2025 season.

Despite the challenges, Burrow ended the 2025