NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the news: “The #Bengals are finalizing a deal with Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden, who is expected to be in Cincinnati on Thursday to officially sign on as DC, sources tell The Insiders.”

The Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator job has been open for more than two weeks now, but there hasn't been much movement on a possible hiring and now we know why: The team was waiting for Notre Dame to finish its season.

The Cincinnati Bengals are finalizing terms with Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden to bring him aboard in the same position on head coach

The Cincinnati Bengals are hiring Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden as their defense coordinator, according to multiple reports. Golden will replace Lou Anarumo, whom the Bengals fired at the conclusion of their season. The Colts hired Anarumo as their defensive coordinator on Monday.

The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly finalizing a deal with Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden that will have him return to the "Who Dey" nation.

"Notre Dame DC Al Golden is expected to become the Cincinnati Bengals next defensive coordinator. He’s informed Notre Dame officials of his decision," Thamel reported. Given the ties to Cincinnati with him formerly being on the staff and the prominent success with Notre Dame -- Golden's return to the Bengals mad plenty of sense.

Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden is expected to join the Bengals in the same role, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel on Wednesday.