Kansas City (Parliament Politics Magazine) January 19, 2026 – The Kansas City Chiefs have formally requested permission from the Chicago Bears to interview running backs coach Eric Bieniemy for their vacant offensive coordinator position. This development, reported across multiple outlets, signals a potential reunion with a key architect of the franchise’s recent successes under head coach Andy Reid. Current offensive coordinator Matt Nagy’s contract expired after the 2025 season, positioning him as a leading candidate for the Tennessee Titans’ head coaching vacancy. Bieniemy’s prior tenure in Kansas City from 2018 to 2022 included multiple playoff runs and Super Bowl appearances.
Chiefs Initiate Contact for Bieniemy Interview
The Kansas City Chiefs have taken the first formal step toward potentially reuniting with Eric Bieniemy by requesting permission to interview him for the offensive coordinator role. As reported by Josh Alper of NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, the request targets Bieniemy in his current capacity as Chicago Bears running backs coach. The move follows the conclusion of the 2025 NFL season, during which Matt Nagy served as Kansas City’s offensive coordinator on an expiring contract.
Multiple sources confirm the Chiefs’ interest in restoring a familiar face to Andy Reid’s staff. Bieniemy held the offensive coordinator position in Kansas City from 2018 through 2022, contributing to an offence that consistently ranked among the league’s elite. The request underscores the organisation’s focus on maintaining schematic continuity around quarterback Patrick Mahomes amid broader coaching transitions.
NFL insider Adam Schefter provided early confirmation of the development. Adam Schefter said in X post,
“Chiefs requesting permission to interview Eric Bienemy for their OC job, per source.”
Chiefs requesting permission to interview Eric Bienemy for their OC job, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 19, 2026
Nagy’s Contract Status Drives Timeline
Matt Nagy completed the 2025 regular season and postseason as the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, but his contract expired at the campaign’s end. As detailed by Josh Alper of NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, Nagy emerges as a top candidate for the Tennessee Titans’ head coaching position, prompting Kansas City to explore replacements swiftly.
The Chiefs’ prompt action reflects standard procedure when a key staff member’s future remains unresolved. Nagy’s prior experience as a head coach with the Chicago Bears from 2018 to 2021 adds to his appeal for Tennessee’s vacancy. Until Nagy’s situation clarifies, Kansas City proceeds with due diligence on potential successors.
This vacancy arises in the context of the Chiefs’ sustained postseason contention. Despite another deep playoff run in 2025, the organisation evaluates its offensive structure to sustain competitiveness entering 2026.
Bieniemy’s Proven Track Record in Kansas City
Eric Bieniemy’s history with the Chiefs spans five seasons as offensive coordinator, from 2018 to 2022. During that period, Kansas City’s offence produced high-volume passing attacks led by Patrick Mahomes, securing two Super Bowl victories and multiple AFC Championship appearances.
As reported by Josh Alper of NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, Bieniemy’s role involved collaborative game-planning with Andy Reid, emphasising explosive plays and situational efficiency. His tenure elevated the Chiefs to perennial contenders, with the team averaging over 30 points per game in several seasons.
Bieniemy garnered multiple head coaching interviews during his Kansas City years, including opportunities with franchises seeking offensive-minded leadership. Despite those discussions, he remained in the coordinator role, building a reputation for player development and strategic adaptability.
Transition to Washington Commanders
Bieniemy departed Kansas City after the 2022 season for a lateral move to the Washington Commanders as offensive coordinator. This shift, covered extensively by Josh Alper of NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, afforded him primary play-calling duties independent of Reid’s system.
Washington recorded a 4-13 mark in 2023 under head coach Ron Rivera, with the entire offensive staff dismissed at season’s end. Bieniemy’s opportunity to lead the offence full-time marked a deliberate step to address perceptions around his readiness for expanded autonomy.
The Commanders’ struggles highlighted broader team challenges, including quarterback transitions and defensive inconsistencies. Nonetheless, Bieniemy’s year of sole play-calling responsibility fulfilled a benchmark often cited in head coaching evaluations.
Interim Stop at UCLA
Following his Washington dismissal, Bieniemy joined UCLA for the 2024 season in an offensive assistant capacity. This college-level role, noted in NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk reporting, bridged his NFL experience with a return to professional ranks.
At UCLA, Bieniemy contributed to an offence navigating quarterback competition and Big Ten Conference adjustments. His one-year stint provided exposure to diverse personnel and schematic demands outside the AFC West.
This phase preceded his 2025 return to the NFL with the Chicago Bears as running backs coach, aligning him with a ground-focused attack emphasising committee approaches and blocking schemes.
Current Role with Chicago Bears
Bieniemy entered the 2025 season as running backs coach for the Bears, focusing on position-group development amid Matt Eberflus’ staff. Chicago’s offence showed incremental progress in rushing efficiency, with Bieniemy overseeing a unit that integrated young talent.
As Josh Alper reported for NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk, Bieniemy’s responsibilities included scheme installation and player coaching, maintaining his presence in high-stakes NFL environments. The Bears granted standard permission requests as part of league protocol, with no reported resistance to Kansas City’s inquiry.
His current contractual status requires Chicago’s approval for interviews, a formality typically accommodated for lateral or promotional opportunities.
Player and Staff Relationships Highlighted
Bieniemy maintains strong ties within the Chiefs’ locker room, stemming from years of shared successes. Players frequently reference his motivational presence and demanding style, which fostered accountability during high-pressure stretches.
NFL writer Matt Verderame offered insight into Bieniemy’s standing among Kansas City personnel. Matt Verderame said in X post,
“I’ll be the dissenting voice since I know many in KC aren’t thrilled with this. The Chiefs need accountability. Mahomes talked about it repeatedly in his presser last week. Bieniemy brings that in spades. He’s also beloved by many of the players. When they had him speak to the team prior to the AFCCG in Baltimore, it was very inspiring. I think that speaks to a level of respect between the two sides.”
I’ll be the dissenting voice since I know many in KC aren’t thrilled with this.
The Chiefs need accountability. Mahomes talked about it repeatedly in his presser last week. Bieniemy brings that in spades.
He’s also beloved by many of the players. When they had him speak to the… https://t.co/4IMLDWzsBM
— Matt Verderame (@MattVerderame) January 19, 2026
Verderame’s observation aligns with reports of Bieniemy addressing the team before the AFC Championship Game in Baltimore, underscoring mutual respect despite his absence.
Patrick Mahomes publicly emphasised accountability in recent remarks, themes echoed in coverage of the Chiefs’ postseason reflections. Bieniemy’s reputation for instilling discipline positions him as a fit for those priorities.
NFL Protocol for Permission Requests
League rules mandate formal permission when one team approaches a coach under contract with another club. Kansas City’s request specifies the offensive coordinator vacancy, distinguishing it from assistant roles.
As outlined in Josh Alper’s NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk article, such processes ensure compliance and protect organisational stability. The Bears hold discretion but routinely approve interviews for comparable positions.
No timeline for the interview has surfaced, though off-season timing allows flexibility before training camps. Finalisation awaits permission and mutual scheduling.
Broader NFL Coaching Carousel Underway
This development unfolds amid widespread coaching changes across the league. The Buffalo Bills dismissed head coach Sean McDermott, retaining general manager Brandon Beane to oversee the search, per Josh Alper of NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk.
Pittsburgh Steelers parted ways with Mike Tomlin, with betting markets favouring Chris Shula as successor. Las Vegas Raiders scheduled second interviews with Jesse Minter and Jeff Hafley, reflecting defensive coordinator demand.
Kansas City’s measured approach contrasts with head coaching frenzies, prioritising offensive stability around Mahomes. The Titans’ interest in Nagy interconnects these movements, potentially accelerating timelines.
Historical Context of Chiefs Offence
Under Andy Reid since 2013, the Chiefs’ offence evolved into a pass-heavy juggernaut, peaking during Bieniemy’s coordination. Annual rankings in the top five for yards and points underscored schematic innovation.
Bieniemy’s promotion from running backs coach internalised Reid’s principles, blending zone-running concepts with no-huddle passing. Super Bowl LIV and LVII triumphs cemented the formula’s efficacy.
Post-Bieniemy, Nagy adapted similar elements, sustaining output despite receiver turnover. A reunion would blend past synergies with recent experiences.
Potential Impact on 2026 Season Preparations
Should permission materialise and an agreement follow, Bieniemy’s familiarity expedites installation. Shared terminology and player histories minimise transition friction, vital for early off-season planning.
Kansas City enters 2026 as defending contenders, with draft capital and cap space supporting roster enhancements. Offensive continuity bolsters title defence amid AFC parity.
Alternative candidates remain possible, though Bieniemy’s profile aligns closely with Reid’s vision. Resolution hinges on Nagy’s trajectory and Bears’ response.
Reactions from League Observers
Early reporting from Schefter and NBC Sports broke the news, prompting discourse on Bieniemy’s fit. Verderame’s dissent against scepticism highlights locker-room dynamics, countering narratives of faded relevance.
League-wide, Bieniemy’s odyssey—from interviews to stints in Washington, UCLA, and Chicago—demonstrates resilience. Head coaching pursuits continue, with coordinator returns as viable paths.
Media coverage emphasises neutrality, focusing on procedural facts over outcomes. Chiefs’ silence preserves process integrity.
Comparative Coordinator Vacancies
Several teams navigate similar transitions. Tennessee’s head coaching pursuit elevates Nagy, while Pittsburgh rebuilds atop. Buffalo’s rebuild post-McDermott seeks identity.
Kansas City’s internal option differentiates its search, leveraging alumni networks. Success hinges on balancing familiarity with evolution.
Long-Term Implications for Bieniemy
A Kansas City return elevates Bieniemy from position coach, reigniting coordinator duties. Head coaching aspirations persist, bolstered by Reid-system mastery.
Washington’s play-calling validated independence, addressing past critiques. Chicago refined ground-game expertise, diversifying acumen.
At 57, Bieniemy’s trajectory intersects opportunity and timing in a competitive market.
Chiefs’ Strategic Off-Season Priorities
Beyond coordination, Kansas City addresses receiver depth, line stability, and defensive youth. Coaching alignment supports these aims, maximising Mahomes’ prime.
Reid’s oversight ensures schematic consistency regardless of hire. Bieniemy’s candidacy embodies that ethos.
Ongoing Developments in Focus
As permissions pend, updates track Nagy’s Titans trajectory and Bears’ stance. League-wide carousel influences ripples, with interconnected hires shaping landscapes.
NBC Sports’ ProFootballTalk sustains coverage, aggregating reports for transparency. Chiefs monitor amid preparation for 2026 draft and free agency.
This story evolves, with formal announcements anticipated soon. Kansas City positions for contention, rooted in proven partnerships.