Former Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy is finalizing a two-year deal to join UCLA’s staff as the Bruins’ associate head coach/offensive coordinator, sources confirmed on Saturday.
This move is significant for new UCLA coach DeShaun Foster, who aims to establish an NFL identity with the Bruins. It is also a homecoming for Bieniemy, who grew up in the area and previously worked as a Bruins assistant from 2003 to 2005.
After considering opportunities in the NFL, including an interview for the Commanders’ head-coaching position and other offensive coordinator roles, Bieniemy made the decision to return to school. He had even received an offer as an assistant head coach/running backs coach from an NFL team.
Bieniemy’s return to college football comes following his stint as the Colorado Buffaloes’ offensive coordinator from 2011 to 2012. His wealth of experience in the NFL, which includes winning two Super Bowls as the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive coordinator, will undoubtedly benefit the Bruins.
The hiring of Bieniemy is crucial for Foster, who is in his first season as a head coach and lacks coordinator experience. With Bieniemy’s expertise and knowledge, they can start shaping UCLA’s offensive strategy. It’s worth mentioning that former head coach Chip Kelly previously served as UCLA’s offensive playcaller.
Bieniemy is eager to support Foster’s journey as a head coach and help him achieve success in the profession. His return to UCLA also holds emotional value for him and his family, as they are returning to a place they once called home.
Despite his successful tenure with the Commanders, there were misconceptions regarding his departure. Bieniemy clarified that he was not fired but rather made a conscious decision to move on. He emphasized his excitement to coach the young men at UCLA, stating that his expectations and desire for excellence remain unwavering.
Looking at the implications of this hiring, we can draw connections to the broader trends in the sports industry. The willingness of NFL coaches like Eric Bieniemy to take on college coaching roles reflects a broader shift in the dynamic between professional and collegiate sports.
This trend is not limited to football alone. We have witnessed successful transitions from the NFL to college in other sports as well. Coaches like Nick Saban, Jim Harbaugh, Bill O’Brien, and Kliff Kingsbury have all made successful moves to the college ranks, bringing their wealth of experience and expertise with them.
This phenomenon raises interesting questions regarding the future of coaching and the benefits it brings to college programs. Could we see more NFL coaches following Bieniemy’s path and returning to the college scene? If so, what impact might this have on both professional and collegiate sports?
Another point of interest is how Bieniemy’s NFL experience and success might influence recruiting efforts at UCLA. As the Bruins prepare for their move to the Big Ten Conference, Bieniemy’s presence and reputation within the NFL might generate excitement among potential student-athletes considering UCLA.
Looking ahead, the sports industry should take note of these trends and consider the implications for future coaching hires. As the lines between professional and collegiate sports continue to blur, the expertise and experience of coaches like Bieniemy will become even more valuable.
In conclusion, Eric Bieniemy’s move from the NFL to UCLA as the associate head coach/offensive coordinator showcases the changing dynamics within the sports industry. His decision highlights the allure of college coaching and how it can provide new opportunities for experienced professionals. The implications of this trend extend beyond the football field, raising questions regarding the future of coaching and its impact on both professional and collegiate sports. As the industry continues to evolve, it is vital for teams and organizations to recognize the value that coaches with NFL experience can bring to the collegiate level.
