Why the Chiefs are considering reuniting Eric Bieniemy and Travis Kelce to reset the offense after a disappointing season

The Kansas City Chiefs are heading into an offseason that feels very different from what fans have grown used to over the past decade. After years of offensive dominance, the 2025 season exposed cracks that never fully closed. Injuries, inconsistency, and a rare losing record forced the organization into self-reflection, and now the focus has shifted to how quickly that edge can be reclaimed.
For many around the league, the direction Kansas City appears to be leaning toward feels familiar for a reason. Instead of chasing the next big idea, the Chiefs are seriously considering a return to something that once defined them. The potential move is not about nostalgia. It is about trust, comfort, and a belief that the fastest way forward might be through a coach who already knows the blueprint.

Chiefs explore Eric Bieniemy return as offensive coordinator amid major offseason questions

Multiple NFL sources indicate the Chiefs have signaled their intention to interview, and potentially hire, Eric Bieniemy as offensive coordinator. Bieniemy is currently on the Chicago Bears’ staff as running backs coach, but his strongest professional ties remain in Kansas City. From 2018 through 2022, Bieniemy helped oversee one of the league’s most dangerous offenses. During that stretch, the Chiefs averaged more than 30 points per game and won two Super Bowls. Those seasons also cemented his reputation as a top offensive mind and a regular head coaching candidate.
The timing of the interest is notable. Matt Nagy’s contract expired after the Chiefs’ first losing season in more than ten years, and he is widely expected to be a finalist for the Tennessee Titans’ head coaching job. With that uncertainty, Kansas City appears drawn to familiarity, especially when it comes to quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who thrived during Bieniemy’s earlier run with the team.
Players have never been shy about voicing their support. Back in 2022, tight end Travis Kelce spoke openly about Bieniemy’s influence on his career. "I've been a big fan of him my entire career, he's done unbelievable things for my skillset personally and my mentality in terms of helping me grow as a player. More than deserving [of an NFL head coaching job]."
According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Chiefs have already requested permission to interview Bieniemy and are expected to move quickly now that Chicago’s season has ended. Bieniemy left Kansas City in 2023 to take on full playcalling duties with the Washington Commanders. That stint ended after a 4-13 season and a coaching overhaul. He spent the following year at UCLA before joining the Bears in 2025, where he helped shape a strong rushing attack.
Former Chiefs right tackle Mitchell Schwartz believes the experience matters. "Getting EB back is the best outcome given that the HC is the OC and has offensive control...EB brings the same traits that made him successful before: works his ass off and holds people accountable," Schwartz wrote on X.


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