Chiefs have critical decision to make on Eric Bieniemy, Mike Kafka

Per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, the Kansas City Chiefs are set to hire Chicago Bears running backs coach Eric Bieniemy for 2026.

The "plan" is for Bieniemy to become the offensive coordinator and replace Matt Nagy, who is interviewing for head-coaching jobs in this hiring cycle. The Chiefs have yet to announce the hire, and Nagy is still listed as the offensive coordinator on the team's website.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated suggested Chiefs head coach Andy Reid could have a big decision to make with his offensive staff this offseason. While Bieniemy is expected to become the offensive coordinator, former New York Giants offensive coordinator and interim head coach Mike Kafka could come aboard.

"Eric Bieniemy’s potential return to Kansas City is interesting," Breer wrote. As I understand it, Andy Reid would like to have Bieniemy on his 2026 staff, adding a layer of accountability, and may need to use the coordinator title to get him out of Chicago. 

"Where that leaves Nagy, who’s on an expiring contract, is another layer to all of it. And Mike Kafka, who Reid loves, could be another piece of the equation. Reid has spoken glowingly of Kafka to teams considering him as a coordinator candidate."

Chiefs have a big decision to make with offensive staff

Kafka recently interviewed for the offensive coordinator job with the Philadelphia Eagles. Reid considers Kafka an offensive coordinator. He worked with Reid and the Chiefs as an offensive quality control coach, quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator before leaving for the Giants.

Could Reid consider making Kafka a co-offensive coordinator with Bieniemy? Would Bieniemy be ok with that dynamic? Bieniemy has previous experience as an offensive coordinator under Reid. Kafka does not. 

After missing the playoffs, the Chiefs need to nail the offensive coordinator hire and make sure to get the best out of Patrick Mahomes in 2026. That might mean shaking up the dynamics of the coaching staff. Kansas City would undoubtedly be better off having the minds of Bieniemy and Kafka working together.