After losing former offensive coordinator, Brian Callahan, who earlier this week was unveiled as the new head coach of the Tennessee Titans, the Cincinnati Bengals were in need of a new offensive coordinator.
Not wanting to waste time, the Cincinnati Bengals have opted to appoint their successor quickly and efficiently, rather than take time interviewing considerable candidates and making a long, drawn out decision.
What Options Do The Cincinnati Bengals Have To Replace Brian Callahan?
Cincinnati Bengals Training Camp July 29 0020
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Despite presumably multiple options, the realistic options for the position came down to quarterbacks coach, Dan Pitcher, and clear fan choice, interim offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, Joe Brady.
Now, it seems as if the decision has been made by head coach Zac Taylor and personnel head Duke Tobin, per Ian Rapoport.
The #Bengals have their replacement for OC Brian Callahan in their building: Sources say they are hiring QBs coach Dan Pitcher to be their OC — an obvious choice.
The work he’s done with Joe Burrow (and Jake Browning) stood out. He and Zac Robinson were the two most popular OC… pic.twitter.com/ODh04VPcjj
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 24, 2024
Who Is New Offensive Coordinator Dan Pitcher?
Pitcher was, as Rapoport mentioned, always the obvious choice, even if the Bengals fanbase widened their eyes at the prospect of Joe Burrow reuniting with his former OC and fellow FBS National Championship winner, Joe Brady.
Pitcher is not only well liked by players and staff alike, but is considered to have been instrumental in the development of both franchise quarterback, Joe Burrow, and his impressive understudy, Jake Browning, who shined at various points in the 2023 in Burrow’s absence.
Can Pitcher Succeed As Bengals OC?
Presumably, the Bengals would argue yes. Especially considering the onus will not be entirely on Pitcher, as Zac Taylor remains the play caller for the foreseeable future as head coach.
Whilst QB nous is not everything for an offensive coordinator, it is certainly a big boon, and on-brand from a team that likes to promote in house, and until very recently, rarely ventured into the free-agent market.
In fact, Dan Pitcher’s entire pro career has been spent in Cincinnati, and the well-regarded 37 year old will finally get to put his stamp on the Bengals’ defense.
