Eric Bieniemy is one of the most talked-about names in the NFL. Known for his sharp offensive mind and passionate leadership, Bieniemy has built a reputation as a coach who brings out the best in his players. But despite his success, his career path hasn’t been easy. Many believe he’s been unfairly passed over for head coaching jobs, and that has sparked important conversations about fairness and diversity in the NFL.
This article takes you through Eric Bieniemy’s life story from being a standout player to one of the top assistant coaches in football. We’ll explore his impact on the game his coaching style and the challenges he still faces today.
Who is Eric Bieniemy
Eric Bieniemy was born on August 15 1969 in New Orleans Louisiana but grew up in California. He quickly became known as a talented athlete and made a name for himself in college football. At the University of Colorado Bieniemy led the Buffaloes to a national championship in 1990. By the time he left college he held multiple school records including becoming the all-time leading rusher.
He entered the NFL in 1991 after being drafted in the second round by the San Diego Chargers. Bieniemy also played for the Cincinnati Bengals and the Philadelphia Eagles during his career. Though he didn’t become a superstar on the field his work ethic and knowledge of the game stood out.
Eric Bieniemy’s Early Coaching Career
After retiring as a player Bieniemy turned to coaching. He began at the college level then worked his way into the NFL.
- Colorado 2001-2002 Running Backs Coach
- UCLA 2003-2005 Running Backs Coach
- Minnesota Vikings 2006-2010 RB Coach mentoring Adrian Peterson
- University of Colorado 2011-2012 Offensive Coordinator
- Kansas City Chiefs 2013-2022 Running Backs Coach then Offensive Coordinator
It was in Kansas City where his coaching career really took off. Under head coach Andy Reid Bieniemy was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2018. He helped build one of the NFL’s most explosive offenses featuring quarterback Patrick Mahomes tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Tyreek Hill.
In 2019 the Kansas City Chiefs won Super Bowl LIV and returned to the Super Bowl in later seasons. Bieniemy played a major role in designing game plans and developing star talent.
Why Eric Bieniemy Hasn’t Been Hired as a Head Coach
Despite all his success Bieniemy has not yet been hired as a head coach in the NFL. He’s interviewed for over a dozen head coaching jobs but each time he’s been passed over. This has raised serious concerns among fans players and analysts.
Many people believe race has played a role. The NFL has long struggled with hiring minority head coaches. While a majority of players are Black very few Black coaches are promoted to head positions.
Some teams have claimed Bieniemy doesn’t call plays which is often not true. Others say he lacks leadership experience but he’s already led one of the most productive offenses in the league. These excuses seem weak especially when other coaches with less experience are hired over him.
Bieniemy’s Coaching Style and Strengths
What makes Eric Bieniemy so valuable as a coach
Player Development
He is excellent at helping players grow and reach their full potential. He helped turn Patrick Mahomes into an MVP and Super Bowl-winning quarterback. Players trust him because he knows the game and treats them with respect.
Offensive Creativity
While Andy Reid had the final say in Kansas City Bieniemy played a big part in weekly game planning. His creativity shows in how the Chiefs adapted their offense each week to attack different defenses.
Passionate Leadership
Bieniemy is intense passionate and energetic on the field. He holds his players accountable but also shows genuine care for their success. This balance is rare and highly valued in coaching.
Taking on a New Challenge in Washington
In 2023 Bieniemy took a big step by leaving the Chiefs to become the Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator of the Washington Commanders. This move was seen as a way to prove he could succeed outside of Andy Reid’s system.
Washington didn’t have a great season but Bieniemy’s offense showed moments of creativity and promise. He worked with a young inconsistent roster and still managed to keep the team competitive. This experience added even more proof that he’s ready to be a head coach.
Will Eric Bieniemy Ever Be an NFL Head Coach
As of 2025 Bieniemy is still waiting for his shot at a head coaching position. Many in the football world believe it’s only a matter of time. He remains one of the most respected assistant coaches in the league.
There’s also a chance he may return to college football to take a head coaching job if NFL opportunities remain limited. Either way his name continues to appear on shortlists for future openings.
A Closer Look at the NFL’s Diversity Problem
Eric Bieniemy’s situation reflects a larger issue in professional football. The NFL has talked a lot about promoting diversity but progress has been slow. The Rooney Rule which requires teams to interview minority candidates for head coaching roles hasn’t led to many actual hires.
Bieniemy has become a symbol of the NFL’s struggles with equity. His case is a clear example of how talented Black coaches often face unfair treatment despite having the qualifications and experience to lead teams.
Lessons from Eric Bieniemy’s Journey
Bieniemy’s path offers many important lessons for athletes and coaches alike
- Stay focused even when overlooked
- Take smart risks to grow your career
- Stand firm in your values and approach
- Be a mentor and build relationships
- Keep pushing even when the system seems unfair
Final Thoughts on Eric Bieniemy
Eric Bieniemy has already had an incredible career as both a player and a coach. His impact on the game is clear in the success of the teams and players he’s worked with. Still the fact that he has not yet been hired as an NFL head coach remains one of the league’s most puzzling and frustrating storylines.
Fans across the country continue to support him and hope that a team will finally give him the chance he deserves. Whether in the NFL or at the college level there’s no doubt Eric Bieniemy will continue to influence the game and inspire the next generation of players and coaches.
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