Bengals defense has players-only meeting after home loss - ESPN

CINCINNATI — A historically poor showing produced a players-only meeting for Cincinnati's defense on Monday.

Members of the Bengals' defense spent extra time together following the team's 39-38 loss to the New York Jets, which were winless entering the weekend. For the first time dating back to 2000, the Jets scored 35 points and racked up more than 500 offensive yards in a single game. New York accomplished that feat despite not having quarterback Tyrod Taylor and wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who were both out with injuries.

On Monday, Bengals defensive coordinator Al Golden said the players' meeting is an indication that what is happening is «unacceptable» and the defense needs to relieve the burden place on other units across the team.

«I don't know what was talked about — nor should I — but it does feel like the fact that was called is a sense of urgency there, as there should be,» Golden said. «Because we cannot do that to the offense and special teams again.

Immediately following the game, Cincinnati coach Zac Taylor said one of the defensive players needs to step up and lead the group and carry a sense of accountability. Less than 24 hours after the defeat, Taylor added that he feels like there are 'good players in that room' who are 'into holding each other accountable.' Taylor added that small details are what's currently ailing that group.

»There's not wholesale changes to be made with that stuff," the seventh-year coach said. «Just fundamentally, we got to be better. And that's really at every level of the defense.»

Heading into Monday Night Football, Cincinnati ranked near the bottom of several major defensive categories. The Bengals are 30th in points allowed per drive (2.76), last in yards allowed per play