Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is well-known for working side by side with NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes, as the two of them collaborated to put together one of the most potent offensive attacks the league has ever seen. Bieniemy is now in Washington, hoping to do something close to what they accomplished in Kansas City with Sam Howell and the Commanders offense.
While Bieniemy is known for his play-calling and his coaching career, it wasn’t the only time he was able to be a part of the NFL family. Bieniemy was an accomplished running back who made a career out of it as a player in the NFL before becoming a coach.
Let’s take a closer look at Bienemy and his playing days.
Eric Bieniemy’s Playing Career
Bieniemy was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft, where he would enjoy a nine-year pro career. During his time, he played for three teams: the San Diego Chargers, the Cincinnati Bengals, and the Philadelphia Eagles, where he ended his playing days playing for current Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.
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Bieniemy appeared in 142 career NFL games. He rushed for 1,589 yards and 11 touchdowns and caught 146 passes for 1,223 yards on offense while also providing 1,621 yards on kickoff returns and one touchdown on special teams, proving to be a dynamic running and receiving back in the NFL that can do it all.
As a player, Bieniemy also reached the biggest stage before making it multiple times as a coach. He appeared in Super Bowl XXIX and recorded a 33-yard reception during the game.
Bieniemy’s Coaching Career
Bieniemy began his NFL coaching career in 2005 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he coached NFL legend Adrian Peterson after a brief stint in the college ranks. During Bieniemy’s time with the Vikings, Peterson led the NFC in rushing with 1,341 yards in 2007 and led the league in rushing in 2008 with 1,760 yards.
After spending five seasons in Minnesota, Bieniemy went back to his alma mater to be the team’s offensive coordinator for three seasons before rejoining the NFL ranks as Kansas City’s RBs coach under Reid.
Bieniemy stayed with the Chiefs organization for 10 seasons and grew to be the team’s offensive coordinator, winning multiple championships. He then started new in Washington with the Commanders in the same role but adding assistant head coach to his title.
