After experiencing success with the Kansas City Chiefs as Andy Reid’s offensive coordinator, Eric Bieniemy emerged as a potential head coaching candidate in the NFL.
Bieniemy’s name circulated frequently as a coaching candidate in recent years, but he ultimately assumed the role of assistant head coach and offensive coordinator with the Washington Commanders.
Despite his elevated title with the Commanders, Bieniemy did not secure a head coaching position, leading him to return to the college ranks after the last season in Washington.
Surprisingly, Bieniemy accepted the position of offensive coordinator for the UCLA Bruins under head coach DeShaun Foster, who sought his leadership and discipline for the team.
“I wanted a real presence as my offensive coordinator,” Foster explained. “Somebody that can command and really demand the kind of discipline I want out of our players.”
“I wanted a real presence as my offensive coordinator.”@UCLAFootball head coach @DeShaunFoster26 told us why he reached out to Eric Bieniemy and what he’s expecting joining the Big 10:#GoBruins pic.twitter.com/susRYbAazu
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) May 8, 2024
Although this might be viewed as a step back to the college level before potentially attaining an NFL head coaching position, Bieniemy’s coaching style could align better with college players than those in the NFL today.
It remains to be seen if Bieniemy will find success at UCLA under Foster and if that success will pave the way for another NFL opportunity.
