Eric Bieniemy’s coaching journey has taken another turn, as he reportedly agrees to become the Chicago Bears’ running backs coach. This marks a return to a familiar role for Bieniemy, who has previously coached running backs at both the collegiate and professional levels. His extensive experience, including a successful stint as the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, brings a wealth of knowledge and championship pedigree to the Bears’ coaching staff.
Bieniemy’s coaching career began at his alma mater, the University of Colorado, where he served as the running backs coach from 2001 to 2002. He then transitioned to UCLA, holding the same position from 2003 to 2004. His success at the collegiate level led to an opportunity in the NFL, as he was named the Minnesota Vikings’ running backs coach in 2006. After a few years in the professional ranks, Bieniemy returned to Colorado in 2011, this time as the offensive coordinator.
Bieniemy’s most prominent coaching role came in 2013 when he joined the Kansas City Chiefs as the running backs coach. He was later promoted to offensive coordinator in 2018, a position he held for five seasons. During his tenure in Kansas City, the Chiefs’ offense became one of the most prolific in the NFL, and Bieniemy played a significant role in the team’s success, including two Super Bowl victories. Despite his contributions, he sought a new challenge after the 2022 season.
In 2023, Bieniemy joined the Washington Commanders as assistant head coach and offensive coordinator, a move that provided him with the opportunity to call plays, a responsibility he didn’t have in Kansas City. Now, he returns to coaching running backs, bringing his extensive experience and championship pedigree to Chicago. His arrival is part of a larger coaching staff overhaul for the Bears under newly hired head coach Ben Johnson.
Ben Johnson, the newly appointed head coach of the Chicago Bears, has assembled a coaching staff that blends experience and fresh perspectives. He has selected Declan Doyle, formerly the tight ends coach for the Denver Broncos, as the Bears’ offensive coordinator. Antwaan Randle El, who worked with Johnson in Detroit as the wide receivers coach, will serve as the assistant head coach. The combination of these coaching hires, along with Bieniemy’s expertise, aims to revitalize the Bears’ offense and bring success to the team.
Bieniemy’s move to Chicago represents a new chapter in his coaching career, one that sees him return to his roots as a running backs coach while bringing the wisdom gained from his experiences at the highest levels of football. His presence on the Bears’ coaching staff adds a significant dimension to the team’s offensive strategy and player development. As the Bears look to improve and compete in the highly competitive NFL landscape, Bieniemy’s contributions will be crucial to their success. His journey from college running back to Super Bowl-winning offensive coordinator and now back to coaching running backs is a testament to his dedication, adaptability, and passion for the game.
