The Cincinnati Bengals moved quickly on Wednesday to choose a replacement for departed defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer.
According to multiple reports, the Bengals promoted linebackers coach Paul Guenther to lead the defense after Zimmer prepared to accept the head coaching position with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Bengals also made the move possibly to prevent other teams from hiring Guenther, according to reports. The Vikings and the Washington Redskins, both now coached by former Bengals coordinators, were reported to be interested at Guenther.
Guenther coached linebackers the past two seasons and has worked on coach Marvin Lewis’ staff since 2005.
The Bengals’ defense ranked No. 3 in the NFL during the 2013 regular season, giving up 305.5 yards per game.