Count Demetrious Cox among those Cincinanti Bengals players who are happy to have a new set of eyes and a new approach leading the way into the 2019 season.
For a defensive back like Cox, the biggest refreshing change comes from new defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, whose extensive experience with defensive backs is having a profound change already.
“Coach Lou, Coach Livingston and Coach DJ have done a great job installing the new defense and allowing us to play fast,” Cox said, according to Michael LaPlaca of Bengals.com. “They try to make it as easy as possible for us. I like the defense. I feel like it allows us to communicate and be ahead of the offense.”
On an individual level, Cox is an interesting depth piece with upside after joining the team in 2017 as an undrafted player. He’s exactly the sort of player who gets a new coach leading the way and has the potential to blossom.
Painting in broader strokes, Anarumo’s past experience is huge. While detractors might point out the resume doesn’t feature a ton of coordinator experience, his specialties could still have a big impact.
Remember, a year ago the Bengals fired a coordinator in the middle of the season while budding stars like Williams Jackson struggled to play against their strengths. That isn’t going to happen under Anarumo, who also might squeak the best out of Dre Kirkpatrick and others.
Granted, this all has to unfold on the field. But past experiences for these coaches is something players continue to see translate already, which is a good sign in the summer months.
