Chicago is buzzing with the recent announcement of Eric Bieniemy joining the Bears’ coaching staff as the new running backs coach. After spending a year in college football, specifically at UCLA, Bieniemy is returning to the NFL, bringing a wealth of experience that includes two Super Bowl titles with the Kansas City Chiefs.
The 55-year-old coach had a remarkable decade with the Chiefs, where he was part of a successful coaching team that secured three AFC titles and two Super Bowl wins. His experience is highly anticipated as he joins new Bears head coach Ben Johnson’s staff. Beyond coaching, Bieniemy has strong connections to the game, having played as a running back in the NFL for nine seasons before transitioning into coaching.
Bieniemy’s coaching journey started in 2006 with the Minnesota Vikings, where he coached running backs for five years. This included working alongside star running back Adrian Peterson, who ranks as the fifth all-time career rushing leader. After his time with the Vikings, Bieniemy was the offensive coordinator at the University of Colorado before heading back to the NFL in 2013 as part of Andy Reid’s staff in Kansas City.
During his tenure with the Chiefs, Bieniemy was promoted to offensive coordinator in 2018, coinciding with Patrick Mahomes’ first year as a starting quarterback. Under Bieniemy’s guidance, Mahomes won his first league MVP, and the Chiefs came very close to the Super Bowl that season.
Following a stint as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator last season, and after not being retained following a coaching change, Bieniemy went on to coach at UCLA. Now, he is back in the NFL, joining a revamped coaching staff led by Johnson, who has also appointed notable coaches like Dennis Allen as the defensive coordinator and Declan Doyle as the offensive coordinator.
Interestingly, Johnson has begun forming a complete coaching unit, also bringing in Richard Hightower as special teams coordinator, Antwaan Randle El as the assistant head coach and receivers coach, and Al Harris as the defensive backs coach. As the Bears look to rebound from a challenging 5-12 season, Bieniemy’s expertise will be crucial in enhancing their running game.
