His bountiful energy and trademark catch phrases in tow, Eric Bieniemy returned to Kansas City on Wednesday for his second stint as the Chiefs’ Offensive Coordinator.
Bieniemy, who described himself as “a kid in a candy store” walking through the doors at One Arrowhead Drive, emphasized his appreciation for the Chicago Bears – where he served as Running Backs Coach last year – while also echoing his excitement to get started in Kansas City.
“You know, it was an opportunity to come home,” Bieniemy said. “If Big Red picks up the phone, that’s the only person who makes you say, ‘You know what, it might be time to return home.’ I’m fired up about it, and it’s time to get back in the saddle.”
It’s a saddle that Bieniemy certainly knows well. A stalwart on Kansas City’s coaching staff for 10 seasons from 2013 through 2022, Bieniemy – who played for Head Coach Andy Reid with the Eagles in 1999 – served as the Chiefs’ Offensive Coordinator for five years beginning in 2018. He enjoyed significant success in that role, too, contributing to a Kansas City offense that led the NFL in points-per-game (30.1), yards-per-game (406.2), third-down efficiency (49%), and total touchdowns (296) during his tenure.
“I think we all know the energy that Eric brings, and what he gives to a football team,” Reid said. “I think he’s a great fit here, [and] I’ve had success with bringing guys back into the fold. There’s good continuity, [and] there’s good teamwork that goes on. I know everybody can function well together, and that becomes important to me.”