FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- According to various sources Mike Zimmer, who led the Falcons defense in 2007, will join the Bengals coaching staff as defensive coordinator.
The Bengals website reported Tuesday evening that Zimmer would be joining the AFC North squad. The veteran coach ran the Cowboys' defense for 13 seasons before joining Atlanta prior to the 2007 season. Dallas ranked in the top-10 in defense in seven seasons under Zimmer.
With the Falcons, Zimmer oversaw the development of several rookies on the defense. Late-round pick Trey Lewis started at defensive tackle before he was placed on injured reserve. Second-round pick Chris Houston started 11 games while first-round selection Jamaal Anderson started every game and saw a significant amount of snaps at defensive end.
The Falcons defense finished 29th in points allowed in 2007.
