Cincinnati Bengals’ star pass rusher Trey Hendrickson was on the Pat McAfee show and provided some insight into Lou Anarumo, the Indianapolis Colts’ new defensive coordinator.
“I was blessed to be productive under his scheme,” said Hendrickson. “I think he does a good job of making it a very open room, meaning like you can talk to him about scheme–this doesn’t necessarily fit to what we think we’re going to do to attack them. Very organic and he’s a leader of elite men. He got guys at 4-8 to rally behind a cause and continue to win football games.”
Bengals DE Trey Hendrickson talks about #Colts DC Lou Anarumo on @PatMcAfeeShow:
“He does a good job of making it an open room meaning you can talk to him about scheme.”
“He’s a leader of elite men. I love him and he’s a great friend to me. He’s been a tremendous mentor.” pic.twitter.com/YaEskQZ0az
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) February 5, 2025
During his introductory press conference, Anarumo said that he was going to be a “truth teller.” It’s his job to let the players know whether they are doing it right or wrong.
Based on Hendrickson’s comments, that truth-telling very much goes both ways with Anarumo’s players being comfortable enough to share ideas and how the gameplan can be built differently.
That also speaks to the adaptability of Anarumo’s scheme and the weekly game-plans that are constructed.
Anarumo was dubbed the ‘Mad Scientist’ during his time with the Bengals for his ability to disguise what the defense is doing to keep quarterbacks off-balanced and guessing.
In part, this is accomplished with late movement, versatile defenders who can handle a variety of roles, along with utilizing a variety of coverage looks. A wide-ranging coaching background has also helped build out an extensive and flexible defensive playbook.
Hendrickson played four seasons under Anarumo and has been one of the most disruptive pass rushers during that span.
“I love him. He’s a great friend to me,” added Hendrickson. “He was a mentor to me as well with some of the struggles that happen as you become a successful player and through that he’s been a tremendous mentor and I wish him nothing but the best.”
