Kansas City Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy has interviewed for 15 NFL head-coaching jobs since the 2019 NFL offseason and he’s been passed over for a job each time.
After an 8-hour interview with the Saints over the weekend for their head-coaching vacancy, Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy won’t be getting the job. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, New Orleans has chosen their own defensive coordinator, Dennis Allen, to become the next head coach of their team.
Allen previously served as head coach of the then-Oakland Raiders from 2012 through 2014. He’s been the defensive coordinator in New Orleans since 2015.
Saints have informed their defensive coordinator Dennis Allen that they are hiring him as their next head coach, sources tell ESPN.
Once again Allen replaces Sean Payton, minus the interim title.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 7, 2022
Eight of the nine head-coaching vacancies have now been filled, with the ninth only not filled due to a technicality (Rams OC Kevin O’Connell still coaching in the Super Bowl). Here’s a look at all those hired over Bieniemy this time around:
- Bears: Matt Eberflus
- Broncos: Nathaniel Hackett
- Giants: Brian Daboll
- Raiders: Josh McDaniels
- Vikings: Kevin O’Connell
- Jaguars: Doug Pederson
- Dolphins: Mike McDaniel
- Texans: Lovie Smith
- Saints: Dennis Allen
According to ESPN’s Field Yates, Bieniemy is expected to return to Kansas City as its offensive coordinator for a fifth season, but it’s worth noting that his contract is expiring. He could have the option to return to the Chiefs, who’d welcome his return. He could also coach elsewhere should he have the opportunity and choose to do so.
At this point, it’s tough not to wonder if Bieniemy will ever get a head-coaching job in the NFL. He’s more than qualified, but he’s also interviewed with decision-makers inside nearly half the NFL buildings over the past four years. How many more opportunities will be out there for the Chiefs’ offensive coordinator?
