Eric Bieniemy is back with the Kansas City Chiefs as their offensive coordinator on a new one-year contract following a successful meeting with head coach Andy Reid after his one-year contract expired, according to league sources.
During the latest hiring cycle, Bieniemy was passed over again as nine head coaching positions were filled without him drawing an offer.
What’s next for Eric Bieniemy, Chiefs?
Bieniemy drew interest from the New Orleans Saints, who interviewed him before ultimately hiring defensive coordinator Dennis Allen as the replacement for Sean Payton.
Bieniemy, 52, also interviewed with the Denver Broncos.
Kansas City has also displayed interest in Matt Nagy — their former offensive coordinator and the former Chicago Bears coach — as a potential part of the offensive coaching staff, according to league sources.
The Chiefs have led the NFL with 30.3 points, 404.2 yards, and 3.4 offensive touchdowns per game since Bieniemy was named offensive coordinator in 2018. He was hired by Kansas City in 2013 and was the running backs coach for five seasons.
Bieniemy hasn’t landed a head coaching job
Since 2019, Bieniemy has interviewed for 15 head coaching positions. That includes two interviews this year (Broncos, Saints), six in 2021, three in 2020, and four in 2019.
“It disappoints me that someone hasn’t hired him, obviously, because he’s so good,” Reid said during the playoffs.
Prior to a playoff victory over the Buffalo Bills, Bieniemy addressed his coaching ambitions.
“I think I would bring a lot to the table,” Bieniemy said. “I’m grateful to be thought of in that particular light, but my job is to make sure we stay focused.”
Lawsuit referenced Bieniemy
Bieniemy not landing a head coaching job was referenced in former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores’ class-action lawsuit alleging racial discrimination. Bieniemy has not joined the class-action lawsuit.
“Without question, Mr. Bieniemy has the pedigree, track record, and reputation to make him a sought-after head coach,” Flores’ lawsuit stated.