Eric Bieniemy’s candidacy for NFL head coaching openings has been a hot topic annually. It’s a position that has surprisingly alluded the Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator. After falling short during the last couple of head coach hiring cycles, Bieniemy’s name has surfaced as a candidate for multiple offensive coordinator openings, including the Washington Commanders.
Speaking with the media during Monday’s Super Bowl Opening Night, Bieniemy maintains he focused on preparing the Chiefs’ offense against the Philadelphia Eagles for Super Bowl LVII in Arizona.
“I have not taken any interviews for any offensive coordinator position,” Bieniemy said, per Nicki Jhabvala of the Washington Post. “I’ve only taken one interview for a head-coaching position. Right now, I’ve interviewed with the Indianapolis Colts. I thought it went great.
“We’ll see where that goes. Now, as far as the offensive coordinator stuff, right now, I am where my feet are. And right now, I’m focused on helping us to win this game this weekend.”
Eric Bieniemy became the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator in 2018. The Chiefs have reached the AFC Championship Game each of his five seasons leading their offense. Sunday will be Kansas City’s third Super Bowl appearance. His time has been synonymous with quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
However, Bieniemy could feel compelled to break away from the shadows of head coach Andy Reid. And Reid’s shadows cast over him may be one reason Bieniemy has yet to land a head coach position in the NFL that many believe he deserves.
The Colts have several candidates for their head coach opening. Thus, Bieniemy may have to move to another offensive coordinator position where he gets complete control of the offense.
The Commanders and Baltimore Ravens appear primary favorites to steal Bieniemy from the Chiefs. In Washington, they’ve interviewed six candidates. However, none have received a second interview. Presumably, Washington is waiting to talk to Bieniemy.
Meanwhile, the Ravens have started its second round of interviews. Could that leave the door open for Washington?
