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Eric Bieniemy is back with the Kansas City Chiefs, and one of the first things he says he is looking forward to has nothing to do with play calling.

During a recent appearance on the podcast “Defending the Kingdom,” Bieniemy said he is excited to once again hear fans shout “home of the Chieeeeeefs” at the end of the national anthem. The tradition, which started at Arrowhead Stadium, now follows the team everywhere, including road games and Super Bowls.

“You know what I’m excited about?” Bieniemy said. “And this has nothing to do with me going out there and providing anything for the team. I’m looking forward to the national anthem, where we can say, ‘the home of the Chiefs.’

“Because for the past few years, I’ve been mumbling it to myself, covering up my face like, ‘Chiefs,’ you know? So, that’s what I’m excited about.”

Eric Bieniemy Returns as Chiefs Offensive Coordinator

Bieniemy officially returns to Kansas City as offensive coordinator after previously holding the role from 2018 to 2022. During that span, the Chiefs led the NFL in plays of 20 or more yards, points per game, yards per game, and yards per play.

The production dipped in 2025. Kansas City ranked tied for 19th in explosive plays, 21st in points per game, 20th in total yards, and 23rd in yards per play.

Bieniemy said his focus will be on restoring consistency, discipline, and accountability.

“I’ll say this,” Bieniemy said. “My whole point is just making sure that we can always make sure that our guys are committed, okay? They got to be willing to sacrifice. On top of that, understanding the importance of being accountable.”

He added, “It’s about making sure we can become consistent with our work ethic. And so, those are the things that I’m looking forward to, and instilling, and hoping that these guys will buy into.

“And I know, because of the leadership of Pat Mahomes and some of the other guys, I know that’s going to become an infectious behavior.”

Andy Reid’s Phone Call Brought Him Home

Bieniemy said his return started with a phone call from head coach Andy Reid. The call came the day after the Chicago Bears’ season ended in the divisional round of the playoffs.

“It was an opportunity to come home,” Bieniemy said during his introductory news conference. “Whenever Big Red picks up the phone, that’s the only person you’ll say, ‘Hey, you know what? It may be time to return home because he’s giving me this opportunity.’

“Having this opportunity to come back, that was just something that is tough to pass up on.”

Before returning to Kansas City, Bieniemy served as offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders in 2023 and UCLA in 2024, and then as running backs coach for the Bears in 2025. In Chicago, he helped D’Andre Swift post a career-high 1,087 rushing yards and 10 total touchdowns. Rookie Kyle Monangai added 947 all-purpose yards and five touchdowns.

“I’ve had an opportunity to learn a few things and open up my mind just to how to view things from a different point of view,” Bieniemy said.

“Anybody can call plays, but you’ve got to make sure you’re doing what is best for those players. There’s some things about me that have changed. But more than anything, E.B. is E.B. We will still be disciplined and detailed in everything and how we handle our business. There’s a standard of excellence that’ll be expected.”

Reid praised his longtime assistant’s return.

“We all know the energy that Eric brings and what he gives to a team,” Reid said. “He’s coming off a heck of a season with the Chicago Bears. We’re glad E.B. was able to come back in and jump into that position and bring all the knowledge he has to the table.

“There’s nobody like E.B. on the field with the players. He does a great job there.”

Perry Miller Carpenter Perry Carpenter is a writer and editor with 20 years of experience covering entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. She is also a standout contributor at Heavy.com’s sister site Entertainment Now. More about Perry Miller Carpenter