Eric Bieniemy Leaves Chiefs for Commanders: Embracing a New Challenge.
After ten successful seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, including two Super Bowl titles and five consecutive AFC championship game appearances, Eric Bieniemy is ready to take on a new challenge as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders. While some may view his move as disappointing, Bieniemy is excited about the opportunity to broaden his horizons and expand his coaching circles.
During his introductory news conference on Thursday, Bieniemy expressed his belief that “comfort is the enemy of progress” and explained that he was seeking a new challenge. As an assistant under Andy Reid, he had achieved great success, but it was time to move on and accept a new challenge.
“I’m focusing on being the best coach that I can be today,” he said, adding that being a head coach was not currently at the forefront of his mind.
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera was impressed by the Chiefs’ offensive prowess during the NFL postseason and sought a similar playsheet for his team. After the first week of evaluating potential offensive coordinators, Bieniemy became Rivera’s primary target. In Washington, he will take on play-calling duties for the first time in his NFL career.
While Rivera admitted that not being able to speak with Bieniemy during the Chiefs’ Super Bowl run was challenging, he was willing to wait for the potential prize. Once the Super Bowl ended, Washington immediately filed paperwork to ask for permission to interview Bieniemy. Rivera reached out to Reid, who was supportive of Bieniemy’s opportunity in Washington.
Bieniemy’s coaching philosophy is centered on building relationships with players. He has already begun communicating with the Commanders’ offensive players, and they are excited to work with him. According to receiver Terry McLaurin, Bieniemy is not shy about making the standards of success known to his players.
Rivera can empathize with Bieniemy’s situation, having interviewed for numerous head coaching jobs before securing his first top gig. He hopes that the move to Washington will be a good thing for Bieniemy and his coaching career.
Despite leaving behind a family within the Chiefs organization, Bieniemy is eager to broaden his circles and expand his horizons with his new family in Washington. He is excited about the challenge that lies ahead and is focused on being the best coach that he can be today.
