The decision by Eric Bieniemy to leave the Kansas City Chiefs for the Washington Commanders raised a lot of eyebrows around the NFL world. However, Bieniemy says he knew it was time to move on.
“It been ten years, I was blessed to have that opportunity… But one thing in this profession that you learn is that comfort is the enemy of progress,” Bieniemy said, per Patrick Claybon of NFL Network.
Bieniemy joined the Chiefs coaching staff in 2013 as the running backs coach. He earned the title of offensive coordinator in 2018. The Chiefs reached the AFC Championship Game in each of Bieniemy’s five seasons as offensive coordinator. Kansas City won two Super Bowls in three appearances in that span, including this month’s Super Bowl LVII against the Philadelphia Eagles.
“I had an idea that I would be leaving,” Bieniemy added, per Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post. “You always envision it in a different way. But like I said, I had been there for ten years. I accomplished a lot of things there. But now it’s about broadening my circles and expanding and getting to know my new family.”
His success in Kansas City leaves many puzzled he hasn’t landed a head coach position. At least three head coach hiring cycles passed by him. Yet, Bieniemy is focusing on being the Commanders’ offensive coordinator.
“Being a head coach right now, it hasn’t happened,” Beiniemy said, per John Keim of ESPN. “It’s not anything that impacts me. Moving forward the only thing I need to be concerned about is what’s important today.”
Eric Bieniemy gained the title of assistant head coach in the move to the Commanders. He also has been allowed to bring in his offensive staff. Changes have already occurred. The team parted ways with senior offensive assistant Jim Hostler.
Two candidates, Greg Lewis, the Chiefs running backs coach, and former Stanford offensive coordinator Tavita Pritchard, visited the Commanders Wednesday for potential roles on Bieniemy’s staff.
Bieniemy also gains the task of calling plays. Despite being the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, head coach Andy Reid handled the primary play-calling responsibilities.
Bieniemy is “fired up” to call plays for the Commanders.
There’s a drop-off at quarterback going from two-time NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes to second-year Sam Howell, who has one NFL start. Yet, Bieniemy has a slew of weapons at the skill position.
The biggest weapon is Pro Bowl wide receiver, Terry McLaurin. Washington also has Curtis Samuel and last year’s top rookie Jahan Dotson at wide receiver. Bieniemy also has a dynamic duo in the backfield with running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson.
“Why not Washington?” Bieniemy rhetorically asked. “Look at all the talent. Look at the players they have.”
Bieniemy gives Washington hope heading into the 2023 season despite Rivera being on the hot seat after three lackluster seasons.
