Bengals Retain Offensive Coordinator Dan Pitcher, Bucking NFL Coaching Turnover Trend

Cincinnati keeps key offensive coordinator as 21 other NFL teams have new play-callers in 2026

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Cincinnati Bengals have retained offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher this offseason, despite Pitcher drawing interest from other teams for head coaching and coordinator jobs. This continuity stands in contrast to the high turnover at offensive coordinator positions across the NFL, with 21 teams having new play-callers in 2026.

Why it matters

Maintaining offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher gives the Bengals an advantage in a league marked by frequent coaching changes. Pitcher's familiarity with the team's personnel and offensive system should provide stability and consistency as the Bengals look to build on their recent success.

The details

Pitcher, who has been with the Bengals organization since 2018 and is entering his third season as offensive coordinator, interviewed for the Cleveland Browns' head coaching job and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offensive coordinator position this offseason. However, the Bengals were able to retain him, banking on continuity in a league full of turnover. In contrast, 21 other NFL teams will have first-year offensive coordinators in 2026, including three new head coaches and offensive coordinators in the AFC North.

  • Pitcher has been with the Bengals organization since 2018.
  • Pitcher is entering his third season as the Bengals' offensive coordinator in 2026.

The players

Dan Pitcher

The Cincinnati Bengals' offensive coordinator, who has been with the organization since 2018 and is entering his third season in that role.

Zac Taylor

The head coach of the Cincinnati Bengals.

Joe Burrow

The starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals.

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What they’re saying

“I feel confident in the people that we have here. I think we have really smart coaches ... I have a lot of confidence in everybody that's putting together the plans for us week in and week out.”

— Joe Burrow (The Enquirer)

What’s next

The Bengals will look to build on their recent success with the continuity provided by retaining offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher.

The takeaway

In a league marked by frequent coaching turnover, the Bengals' ability to retain offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher gives them a distinct advantage as they aim to build on their recent success. This continuity should provide stability and consistency for the team's offense led by quarterback Joe Burrow.