The Kansas City Chiefs appear to have severed ties with assistant running backs coach Mark DeLeone, marking another significant change in head coach Andy Reid's ongoing offseason rebuild. This development follows a deeply disappointing 2025 season where the franchise missed the playoffs entirely and suffered the devastating loss of star quarterback Patrick Mahomes to a torn ACL.
Staff Exodus Continues at Arrowhead
DeLeone's departure is part of a wider exodus from Reid's coaching staff in recent weeks. Key figures who have already left their posts include offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, who has been pursuing head coaching opportunities, and running backs coach Todd Pinkston. The clearest indication of DeLeone's exit came when his professional profile was removed from the official Chiefs website, amid multiple reports confirming he has been relieved of his duties.
DeLeone's History with the Franchise
Mark DeLeone returned to the Chiefs organisation ahead of the 2025 campaign for his second stint with the team. His previous roles in Kansas City included serving as linebackers coach and defensive quality control coach. His latest exit underscores the comprehensive nature of the staff review following a season that fell dramatically short of the franchise's recent lofty standards.
A Season of Struggle on the Ground
The 2025 season was particularly bleak for the Chiefs' rushing attack, which may have influenced coaching decisions. Lead rusher Kareem Hunt managed only 611 yards, a tally that ranked a lowly 33rd overall across the entire NFL. Meanwhile, Isiah Pacheco was limited to just 462 yards and a single touchdown, as injuries continued to hamper his contributions.
This offensive struggle represented a stark contrast to the dynasty built under Andy Reid. Prior to the 2025 campaign, the Chiefs had secured nine consecutive AFC West titles and reached an impressive five Super Bowls in just six years. However, the team collapsed to a 6-11 regular season record, casting uncertainty over the futures of veteran stars like tight end Travis Kelce.
Potential Homecoming for Eric Bieniemy
In a move signalling the direction of the rebuild, reports emerged on Monday that the Chiefs have requested to interview Chicago Bears running backs coach Eric Bieniemy. Bieniemy is a familiar and highly respected figure at Arrowhead, having worked under Andy Reid from 2013 to 2022, initially as running backs coach before his promotion to offensive coordinator.
According to sources including The Athletic, the Chiefs are widely expected to bring Bieniemy back to Kansas City, potentially as the offensive coordinator for the 2026 season. Star player Travis Kelce has previously expressed immense admiration for Bieniemy, telling ESPN in 2023, 'I've been a big fan of him my entire career. He's done unbelievable things for my skill set, personally, and my mentality, in terms of helping me grow as a player.'
The potential reunion with Bieniemy and the departure of staff like Mark DeLeone illustrate a determined effort by Andy Reid and the Chiefs' leadership to recalibrate and return to championship contention after a season they will be desperate to forget.
