Eric Bieniemy’s coaching career has taken a new turn with his recent appointment as the Chicago Bears running backs coach. This move marks a return to the NFL for Bieniemy, who spent the previous year as the offensive coordinator at UCLA, guiding the Bruins through their inaugural season in the Big Ten Conference. His extensive coaching background, coupled with his experience as a former NFL player, promises to bring a valuable dynamic to the Bears’ coaching staff.
Bieniemy’s journey in football began as a standout running back in college, which culminated in him being selected in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft. This playing experience laid the foundation for his coaching career, starting with a return to his alma mater, Colorado, where he served as the running backs coach from 2001-2002. He then took on the same role at UCLA from 2003-2004 before transitioning to the professional level as the Minnesota Vikings running backs coach in 2006.
Bieniemy’s coaching trajectory took a significant leap forward in 2011 when he returned to Colorado as the offensive coordinator. This position allowed him to hone his offensive play-calling skills and strategic thinking, which later proved invaluable in his rise to prominence. His most notable success came during his tenure as the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Bieniemy’s contributions to the Chiefs’ offensive prowess were instrumental in the team’s success, including two Super Bowl victories. Despite his achievements in Kansas City, Bieniemy sought new challenges and opportunities, leading him to join the Washington Commanders in 2023 as the assistant head coach and offensive coordinator. This role provided him with the coveted opportunity to call plays, a responsibility he didn’t have under Chiefs head coach Andy Reid.
Now, Bieniemy embarks on a new chapter with the Chicago Bears, bringing his wealth of experience and championship pedigree to a team looking to revitalize its offensive performance. He joins a reconfigured coaching staff under recently hired head coach Ben Johnson, who has been actively assembling his team of assistants. Bieniemy’s role as running backs coach represents a return to his coaching roots while still allowing him to contribute his offensive expertise.
The Bears’ coaching staff also includes newly appointed offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, formerly the tight end coach for the Denver Broncos, and assistant head coach Antwaan Randle El. Randle El brings a familiarity with Johnson’s coaching style, having previously worked with him in Detroit, where he served as the wide receivers coach. This blend of experience and fresh perspectives is intended to create a dynamic and collaborative coaching environment for the Bears. Meanwhile, Bieniemy’s former team, the Kansas City Chiefs, will face the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, a game that will undoubtedly be watched with interest by Bieniemy as he embarks on his new role in Chicago.
