Cincinnati’s defensive overhaul in 2026 brings a fresh set of labels, new responsibilities, and a different look for some familiar faces.
The biggest shift comes in the Bearcats’ 3-4 scheme, where the old middle safety spot from the 3-3-5 has been pushed down to the second level. It’s not quite a nickel corner, but it’s the closest thing to it, and Cincinnati will call that role the CAT in 2026.
That change matters because the CAT and DOG spots are built to complement each other. The CAT will spend 70% of its time dropping into coverage and 30% rushing the passer, while the DOG is flipped the other way, bringing pressure 70% of the time and dropping into coverage 30% of the time.
Adam Braithwaite is leading the new-look defense, and his background fits the job. He previously worked with the safeties, including the old STAR position under Tyson Veidt, and he said the transition feels natural for him.
" It's an easy transition for me," Braithwaite said. "There's a lot of carryover from things that I've done in the past, from my previous time as a coordinator.
Before I came here, my last two stops, I was coaching the safeties and the nickel, which would be the CAT in our defense. I feel very comfortable coaching safeties, linebackers, and nickels; that's what I've done the majority of my career… It's more of a learning curve for players who are moving into that role."
As Cincinnati settles into the new structure, Antwan Peek Jr., Marquavious Saboor, and Jaidon Windom are among the players expected to line up in different spots next season.
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