The Kansas City Chiefs have sent a clear signal about their future direction by requesting an interview with Chicago Bears running backs coach Eric Bieniemy this week. This move strongly suggests the franchise is preparing for life after current offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, who is widely tipped for the Tennessee Titans head coach vacancy and is not expected to return in 2026.
A Strategic Return to Past Success
Rather than embarking on a completely new path following a disappointing 6-11 season and their first playoff miss since 2014, the Chiefs appear eager to turn back the clock. According to a report from The Athletic's Dianna Russini, the team is widely expected to bring Bieniemy back as offensive coordinator in 2026, the same role he held from 2018 to 2022.
This potential reunion with Andy Reid's former lieutenant is a telling decision. Despite the challenges of the past season, including Patrick Mahomes' season-ending knee injury in Week 15 and uncertainty around Travis Kelce's future, the organisation is leaning on a proven formula. Under Bieniemy's previous tenure, the Chiefs' offence was a dominant force, ranking first in both scoring and yardage in two seasons and never finishing lower than sixth in either category during his five-year run.
The Kelce and Mahomes Factor
A key motive behind this nostalgic move could be the desire to retain veteran tight end Travis Kelce. Kelce, a soon-to-be free agent, has been vocal about his admiration for Bieniemy, calling him the emotional leader who kept the offensive unit firing. The statistics underscore this bond vividly.
During Bieniemy's five years as coordinator, Kelce's per-17-game averages were stellar: 107.7 receptions, 1,369.4 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 75 first downs. In the three seasons since Bieniemy's departure, those averages have dipped to 88.7 receptions, 941.4 yards, 4.6 touchdowns, and 50.6 first downs.
The effect on Patrick Mahomes was similarly pronounced. With Bieniemy calling plays, Mahomes achieved an impressive quarterback rating of 106. In the subsequent period, that rating has fallen to a more pedestrian 92. Reinstalling a system and coach both stars thrived under could be crucial, especially with Mahomes' recovery likely extending into next season.
Building a New-Look Ground Game
With increased reliance on the run game probable during Mahomes' rehabilitation, the Chiefs' draft position becomes pivotal. Holding the ninth-overall pick in April's draft, Kansas City could target a dynamic rookie like Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, who rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025.
Bieniemy's expertise as a former NFL running back who has coached All-Pros like Adrian Peterson and Jamaal Charles would be invaluable in developing such a talent. This holistic approach—boosting the pass game through familiarity and enhancing the run game through coaching and draft capital—defines Kansas City's strategic pivot for 2026.
Ultimately, the Chiefs' pursuit of Eric Bieniemy is more than a simple coaching hire. It is a calculated attempt to recapture past offensive glory, re-energise franchise icons, and build a balanced attack capable of returning the team to its championship-contending ways.
