Andy Reid: Eric Bieniemy Spoke to Mahomes, Chiefs Offense Before 2024 AFC Title Game

Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid said former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy addressed the team before the AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens.

Reid told reporters Bieniemy's coaching future is "great" despite being fired by the Washington Commanders. Bieniemy left the Chiefs for the Commanders last offseason, in large part in an attempt to gain recognition for head coaching opportunities.

The one-year stint was a disappointment, as Bieniemy failed to improve the Commanders offense and clashed with players. Former Commanders coach Ron Rivera publicly commented on issues players had with Bieniemy's style dating back to training camp, and things did not appear to improve throughout the season.

Grant Paulsen of 106.7 The Fan said in November that players would not give Bieniemy a "glowing endorsement" if asked by ownership.

"I continue to hear that if this is up to the players, if they are counseled in any way by this ownership group, there will not be glowing endorsements by and large for Eric Bieniemy, from the guys on offense," Paulsen said. "... I'm not sure his style works in today's NFL as we think it might. I just continue to hear from people in and around the building that the players that are working under Bieniemy aren't necessarily advocating for or standing on the table for him to become the guy."

The Commanders fired Bieniemy after hiring Dan Quinn as their head coach. Quinn hired former Arizona Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury to serve as his offensive coordinator.

Bieniemy spent four seasons as the Chiefs' offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2022. Kansas City went to three Super Bowls, winning two, with Bieniemy working with Reid and Patrick Mahomes to revamp the offense. While Reid called the plays and Mahomes is an otherworldly talent, both regularly credited Bieniemy for his work in the offense.

Given the relative lack of openings around the NFL, Bieniemy may wind up back on Reid's coaching staff next season—just not likely as the offensive coordinator. The Chiefs hired Matt Nagy to replace Bieniemy last offseason.