Eric Bieniemy is an American football coach and former NFL running back who currently serves as the Offensive Coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs in the National Football League (NFL). Known for his offensive expertise, player development, and leadership, Bieniemy has played a major role in the success of the Chiefs’ championship-winning teams and has coached some of the NFL’s biggest stars, including Patrick Mahomes. In 2026, he returned to Kansas City for a second stint as offensive coordinator after coaching with Washington, UCLA, and the Chicago Bears.
Eric Bieniemy Quick Facts
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eric M. Bieniemy Jr. |
| Profession | American Football Coach, Former NFL Player |
| Date of Birth | 15 August 1969 |
| Age | 56 Years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) |
| Weight | 205 lb (93 kg) |
| Position (Player) | Running Back |
| Current Role | Offensive Coordinator |
| Current Team | Kansas City Chiefs |
| College | University of Colorado |
| NFL Draft | 1991 – Round 2, Pick 39 |
| Net Worth | Estimated US$6–10 Million |
Early Life and Education
Eric Bieniemy was born on 15 August 1969 in New Orleans, Louisiana, and later grew up in California. He attended Bishop Amat Memorial High School, where he became one of the state’s top high school football players.
He continued his football career at the University of Colorado, becoming one of the greatest players in school history. Bieniemy finished his college career as Colorado’s all-time leader in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns, won a national championship in 1990, earned unanimous All-American honours, and finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting.
Age, Height and Weight
As of 2026, Eric Bieniemy is 56 years old.
- Height: 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m)
- Weight: 205 lb (93 kg)
Although shorter than many NFL running backs, his strength, balance, and quickness helped him enjoy a successful playing career.
NFL Playing Career
Eric Bieniemy was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the 1991 NFL Draft.
During his playing career, he represented:
- San Diego Chargers
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Philadelphia Eagles
NFL Career Statistics
- Games Played: 94
- Rushing Yards: 1,589
- Rushing Touchdowns: 11
- Receiving Yards: 1,223
- Total Touchdowns: 12
After retiring as a player, Bieniemy transitioned into coaching, where he achieved even greater success.
Coaching Career
Eric Bieniemy began coaching in 2000 before progressing through both college football and the NFL.
Coaching Timeline
- Thomas Jefferson High School
- Colorado (Running Backs Coach)
- UCLA (Running Backs Coach)
- Minnesota Vikings
- Colorado (Offensive Coordinator)
- Kansas City Chiefs (Running Backs Coach)
- Kansas City Chiefs (Offensive Coordinator)
- Washington Commanders (Assistant Head Coach & Offensive Coordinator)
- UCLA (Associate Head Coach & Offensive Coordinator)
- Chicago Bears (Running Backs Coach)
- Kansas City Chiefs (Offensive Coordinator)
During his first spell with Kansas City, Bieniemy helped the Chiefs win Super Bowl LIV and Super Bowl LVII. In 2026, he returned to the Chiefs as offensive coordinator under head coach Andy Reid.
Coaching Style
Eric Bieniemy is recognised for:
- Offensive play design
- Quarterback development
- Running game planning
- Leadership
- Player motivation
- Situational football
- Red-zone efficiency
- Strong communication
His coaching has helped develop elite players such as Patrick Mahomes, Kareem Hunt, Jamaal Charles, and Adrian Peterson.
Family
Eric Bieniemy is married to Mia Bieniemy, and the couple have children together, including their son Elijah Zion Bieniemy.
In July 2026, Bieniemy temporarily stepped away from Chiefs training camp after a family tragedy in which his wife, Mia, was seriously injured in a shooting at their Virginia home. Authorities charged their adult son in connection with the incident. The Chiefs publicly expressed support for Bieniemy and his family during the ongoing investigation.
Wife
Eric Bieniemy’s wife is Mia Bieniemy.
The couple have been married for many years and have generally kept their family life private despite Bieniemy’s high-profile NFL career. Following the 2026 shooting incident, the NFL community, including Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, offered public support to the Bieniemy family.
Contract
In January 2026, Eric Bieniemy signed a multi-year contract to return as Offensive Coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs after previously serving with the Chicago Bears. Financial details of the agreement were not publicly disclosed.
Salary
Eric Bieniemy’s estimated annual coaching salary is believed to be between:
- US$2 million – US$3 million per year
The exact figures have not been officially confirmed by the Chiefs.
Awards and Achievements
As a Player
- NCAA National Champion (1990)
- Unanimous All-American
- Big Eight Offensive Player of the Year
- Colorado Athletic Hall of Fame
As a Coach
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (LIV, LVII)
- Multiple AFC Championship titles
- Developed several Pro Bowl and All-Pro players
Net Worth
Eric Bieniemy’s estimated net worth is between US$6 million and US$10 million.
His wealth comes from:
- NFL coaching contracts
- Former NFL playing salary
- Performance bonuses
- Public appearances
- Endorsement opportunities
Wikipedia
Eric Bieniemy has an official Wikipedia page covering his playing career, coaching journey, achievements, and NFL statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Eric Bieniemy?
Eric Bieniemy is an American football coach and former NFL running back who serves as the Offensive Coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs.
How old is Eric Bieniemy?
He is 56 years old as of 2026.
How tall is Eric Bieniemy?
He is 5 ft 7 in (1.70 m) tall.
What is Eric Bieniemy’s weight?
He weighs 205 lb (93 kg).
Who is Eric Bieniemy’s wife?
His wife is Mia Bieniemy.
What is Eric Bieniemy’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is US$6–10 million.
What team does Eric Bieniemy coach?
He is the Offensive Coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Final Words
Eric Bieniemy has built an outstanding football career both as a player and a coach. After starring at the University of Colorado and playing in the NFL, he established himself as one of football’s most respected offensive minds. His work with the Kansas City Chiefs contributed to multiple Super Bowl victories and the development of elite quarterbacks and running backs. Despite personal challenges in 2026, Bieniemy remains one of the NFL’s most accomplished and influential coaches.