Jim Schwartz could be candidate for Bengals DC if Mike Zimmer leaves
By Mike Dyce
As of right now, the Cincinnati Bengals and head coach Marvin Lewis don’t need a defensive coordinator. Mike Zimmer, who currently holds the position, is scheduled for a second interview with the Minnesota Vikings this week and could leave.
The Bengals have already lost offensive coordinator Jay Gruden. If they need to replace Zimmer, former Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz could be a possibility.
From Joe Reedy the Cincinnati Enquirer:
"If Lewis went outside the staff, a possible name is former Lions head coach Jim Schwartz. Lewis and Schwartz worked together in Baltimore and the two remain close friends. Even if Guenther became defensive coordinator, Schwartz could end up here as linebackers coach, but there remain some reports that he wants to take the year off.Much like Jackson came here after being fired by the Raiders, becoming a defensive assistant, coming here could benefit Schwartz the same way. Schwartz coached linebackers in Baltimore and Tennessee."
It would be a big name hiring for the Bengals. The Lions defense was the sixth ranked against the run, allowing 99.8 yards per game. The Lions were 23rd against the pass allowing 246.9 yards per game.