Coyle a candidate: Hebert's background

-- Don't discount Bengals defensive backs coach Kevin Coyle in the race to become Bengals defensive coordinator as Chuck Bresnahan's replacement. He and quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese are two of the hardest workers on the staff and are known for watching untold hours of film.

Coyle was defensive coordinator for five college programs: U.S. Merchant Marine, 1981; Holy Cross, 1986-90; Syracuse, 1991-93; Maryland, 1994-96; Fresno State 1997-2000. Then-Bengals defensive coordinator Mark Duffner, Coyle's boss at Holy Cross and Maryland, brought him to the Bengals after the 2000 season.

Coyle also isn't afraid to speak his mind with head coach Marvin Lewis.

-- Other defensive coordinator candidates are Carolina Panthers secondary coach Tim Lewis and former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, fired along with Brian Billick and his entire staff Monday.

-- This note from a column written and posted earlier this week by Paul Friesen on Slam Sports Canada about safety Kyries Hebert, signed to a two-year contract by the Bengals following four seasons playing in the Canadian Football League.

"Hebert's life appears to be at a crossroads, both professionally and personally.

Early this year he was charged with assaulting his wife, which is what initially scared off most CFL teams in the dispersal draft. The charges have since been reduced to misdemeanours through a plea bargain.

"I've taken 100 percent responsibility for the incident that occurred between my wife and I," Hebert said. "I've been in the church ever since, and I've sought out counseling. I'm a lot better person. Hopefully, through time, I'll build relationships and people will see who I am."
As a player, they already know, at least in the CFL.

Ottawa thought enough of him to sign him to a five-year contract in January, a deal the Bombers took over when they claimed him.

A hard hitter who can run, Hebert would look good beside free agent acquisition Barrin Simpson, especially now that linebacker Sean Woodson has retired.

But the Louisiana native says bigger things are calling him south.

"There's just so much I have on my table right now, as far as my family is concerned, as far as trying to make my marriage work. I mean, everything I need in my life is pointing me towards the NFL right now."