Zac Taylor replacements: 5 best candidates if Bengals fire HC after heartbreaking loss to Bears ft. Bill Belichick

Zac Taylor's Cincinnati Bengals dropped another game on Sunday. They starred in a Week 9 shootout against the Chicago Bears, coming back from a 14-point deficit in the fourth quarter before seeing Caleb Williams and Co. score a last-minute touchdown to escape Paycor Stadium with a 47-42 win.

The defense's performance once again drew criticism from fans, and star wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase shared his frustrations after the game. Taylor's future with the team has been subject to speculation since last season, and these losses could prompt the Bengals to part ways with their leader.

If that's the case, here are five candidates to replace Taylor.

5 coaches who could replace Zac Taylor on Bengals

1. John Morton

NFL: Pro Football Hall of Fame Game-Los Angeles Chargers at Detroit Lions - Source: Imagn

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The Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator has done a solid job taking over from Ben Johnson. Morton's offense boasts the best offensive rating in the league (116.5, tied with the New England Patriots), while scoring the second-most total touchdowns (30). Morton could elevate the team's offense with either Joe Flacco or Joe Burrow.

2. Bill Belichick

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Bill Belichick is currently coaching the North Carolina Tar Heels, but it's well known that he awaits a new opportunity in the NFL. The eight-time Super Bowl champion is a defensive mastermind who could turn the team around on the less glamorous side of the ball.

3. Kliff Kingsbury

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Kliff Kingsbury had a prior stint as the Arizona Cardinals head coach, which didn't go as desired. The Washington Commanders' offensive coordinator has earned admirers across the league, and the Bengals could use his knowledge and fresh ideas to start over.

4. Jesse Minter

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Jesse Minter has made strides in only two seasons with the LA Chargers. After allowing just 247.0 total net yards per game with the 2023 NCAA national champions, the Michigan Wolverines, he joined Jim Harbaugh's coaching staff in Los Angeles. His defensive prowess could benefit the Bengals.

5. Jeff Hafley

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Just like Minter, Jeff Hafley has proven his value as a defensive coordinator. The Green Bay Packers coach led the team to top-10 rankings in total defense (No. 5, 314.5 ypg), run defense (No. 7, 99.4 ypg), scoring defense (No. 6, 19.9 ppg), yards allowed per play (No. 5, 5.16), takeaways (No. 4, 31) and sacks (t-No. 8, 45) for the first time in franchise history last season, making a strong case as a future head coach.

Edited by Orlando Silva