The NFL’s hiring practices have faced intense scrutiny for years. Over the past decade, several qualified candidates have failed to receive legitimate opportunities to become head coaches.
Eric Bieniemy fits that description. Despite serving as the Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2022, he has yet to land a head coaching job. During that stretch, he helped develop Patrick Mahomes and guided one of the league’s most explosive offenses to three Super Bowl appearances and two championships.
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Since leaving Kansas City, Bieniemy has worked with three different football programs between 2023 and 2025. Most recently, he served as the running backs coach for the Chicago Bears. Now back with the Chiefs, reports indicate he has rejoined the NFL’s coaching and front-office accelerator program.
Oct 16, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy talks with quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images
The program returned after the league paused it for a year to reevaluate its structure and effectiveness. Bieniemy previously participated in the initiative, but he still has not made the jump to head coach. Perhaps this latest opportunity could finally help him break through.
Speculation has surrounded Bieniemy’s candidacy for years. Some point to off-field incidents from his past, while others question his interviewing style. Still, no definitive explanation has emerged for why he continues to be overlooked.
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What is clear, however, is that the Chiefs’ offense performed better with Bieniemy on the staff. Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy won a Super Bowl in his first season back in 2023, but the offense regressed afterward. The unit underperformed enough that Kansas City chose not to renew his contract, reinforcing the belief that Bieniemy’s presence had a significant impact.
Bieniemy has also built a reputation as an intense and demanding coach. Over the years, cameras have captured him clashing with star players on the sidelines and during practices. Even so, many of those players have consistently voiced their respect for him and his coaching style.
If Bieniemy can help get the Chiefs’ offense back on track this season, he should firmly reenter the head coaching conversation for 2027. Few assistants have compiled a résumé as accomplished as his without receiving an opportunity to lead a team. Maybe this renewed path through the accelerator program will finally help him reach that goal.
Will Bieniemy finally soon get his shot as an NFL head coach?
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