Report: Bengals Not Interested in Don 'Wink' Martindale for Vacant Defensive Coordinator Job

Some clarity on what was a curious report to begin with...

Jan 3, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebackers coach Don Martindale reacts against the Pittsburgh Steelers in an AFC wild card playoff game at Heinz Field. The Ravens defeated the Steelers 30-17. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

CINCINNATI — No, the Bengals aren't intested in Don "Wink" Martindale for their defensive coordinator job.

After a few hours of speculation following Tom Pelissero's report about Martindale, Paul Dehner Jr. of The Athletic shut down any possibility of the veteran coach joining the Bengals' staff.

"For clarity: Martindale is not part of the DC search nor was he ever under consideration," Dehner tweeted.

The Bengals' search for Lou Anarumo's replacement is more than a week old. We know they've interview Patrick Graham and DeMarcus Covington. They've also been linked to Matt Eberflus.

Regardless, it's safe to say Martindale won't be the Bengals next defensive coordinator.

Considering the unfriendly history between the #Bengals and Wink Martindale, it's kind of funny they somehow got caught up in the conversation about him for DC.

For clarity: Martindale is not part of the #Bengals DC search nor was he ever under consideration.

— Paul Dehner Jr. (@pauldehnerjr) January 14, 2025

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