Bengals Shock Fans by Keeping Taylor, Tobin — Clear Warning Sent
The Cincinnati Bengals are choosing continuity over upheaval. After a frustrating 6–11 season and a third straight year without a playoff appearance, owner Mike Brown confirmed Monday that head coach Zac Taylor and longtime personnel chief Duke Tobin will both return as the franchise looks to reset and rebound in 2026.
Brown acknowledged the disappointment of the season but emphasized belief in the current leadership structure. The year was significantly impacted by quarterback Joe Burrow’s absence, as the former No. 1 pick missed most of the campaign after undergoing surgery for a turf toe injury. Despite the setback, ownership says the goal remains unchanged: building a team capable of competing at the highest level on a consistent basis.
Taylor will enter his eighth season as head coach, already having carved out a notable place in team history. He has guided Cincinnati to two playoff runs and is the only Bengals coach to reach the AFC Championship Game more than once. While his regular-season record sits below .500, his postseason success and longevity have kept him firmly in the organization’s plans. The team has previously indicated his contract runs through 2026.
Tobin, who serves as director of player personnel and effectively functions as the team’s general manager, will also remain in charge of roster construction. He has been with the Bengals organization since 2002 and played a central role in assembling the teams that reached the Super Bowl and multiple conference title games earlier this decade. Ownership pointed to that track record as a key reason for retaining him.
Keeping Taylor and Tobin signals stability, but it also raises the stakes heading into the offseason. With Burrow expected to return healthy and a competitive core still intact, Cincinnati faces mounting pressure to fix roster shortcomings through free agency and the draft. The Bengals have made it clear this is a vote of confidence—but also an expectation that results must improve quickly.
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