ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has sparked a heated debate across the NFL by calling for the Cincinnati Bengals to part ways with head coach Zac Taylor. Smith’s central argument is that Taylor’s success is entirely tied to the health and performance of star quarterback Joe Burrow.
These comments have divided the Bengals’ fan base into two passionate groups. On one hand, many fans agree with Smith, expressing frustration over the team’s slow starts to the season and the defense’s recent struggles. They feel that with stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, the team should be more competitive even when facing adversity.
On the other hand, a large portion of the “Who Dey” nation remains loyal to Taylor. These fans point to the culture he has built and the unprecedented success he brought to a franchise that had gone decades without a playoff win.
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“That man need to go. He can’t coach without Joe Burrow, at all. I mean, there are other components … but somehow, someway they manage to lose games …”
Stephen A. Smith Slams Zac Taylor’s Record As “Burrow-Dependent”
Stephen A. Smith recently used his platform on First Take to highlight what he calls a disturbing trend in Taylor’s coaching record. He noted that the Bengals’ winning percentage drops dramatically when Joe Burrow isn’t under center.
The analyst specifically mentioned the heavy toll Burrow has taken, being sacked over 200 times in his career. Smith blames Taylor and the front office for failing to build a sturdy offensive line to protect their most valuable asset. By labeling Taylor as “Burrow-dependent,” Smith is suggesting that the head coach is more of a passenger than a driver in the team’s success.
This harsh critique has resonated with critics who believe the Bengals have underachieved relative to their offensive talent. Smith’s comments have turned the spotlight on Taylor’s overall record, which includes several losing seasons outside of the deep playoff runs.
Bengals Retain Taylor Despite Mounting Pressure
Despite the loud calls for his firing on Black Monday, the Cincinnati Bengals have officially decided to retain Zac Taylor for the 2026 season. The organization confirmed that Taylor and the current coaching staff will remain in place, emphasizing their belief in the stability they have built.
Rumors had circulated that the Bengals might look at other candidates, such as Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, but ownership opted for continuity. Sources suggest that Joe Burrow’s personal support for Taylor played a significant role in the decision.
However, the decision to stay the course has not silenced the critics. While Taylor’s job is safe for now, he enters 2026 in one of the hottest seats in the NFL. Fans are expecting immediate results and a fast start to the season to prove that the “Burrow-dependent” label is unfair.
Published: Jan 6, 2026 11:02 am