Saints to interview Chiefs OC Eric Bieniemy for head coaching vacancy

Kansas City offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is set to interview with the New Orleans Saints, about a week after Sean Payton stepped down from his position as the team's head coach.

Bieniemy, 52, has led the way of one of, if not the most dominant unit in the NFL for four seasons, but hasn't yet been given a head coaching opportunity. The Chiefs have finished no worse than No. 6 in the NFL in total yards or points scored since Bieniemy took the reins in 2018. In 2021, Kansas City was fourth in points scored during the regular season and third in total yards.

Meanwhile, the Saints struggled through their worst offensive season in well over a decade. Quarterback Drew Brees retired after the 2020 season, leaving Jameis Winston to take over as the team's starter. But Winston suffered a torn ACL in Week 8 and New Orleans was forced to rely on Taysom Hill, Trevor Siemien, and even rookie Ian Book at quarterback instead. The Saints finished 19th in points scored and 28th in total yards.

Former Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores specifically mentioned Bieniemy in a lawsuit filed against the NFL on Tuesday. According to Flores, Bieniemy's inability to get a head coaching job is another example of racial discrimination of NFL teams who instead chose "numerous white candidates who are clearly less qualified" than the Chiefs coordinator.

On Wednesday, the Saints announced Flores, Detroit Lions defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn, and former Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson all interviewed for their head coaching vacancy.