What factors could be tempting for Eric Bieniemy ahead of his interview to potentially become Washington Commanders’ offensive coordinator?
After weeks of speculation, Eric Bieniemy will formally sit down with the Washington Commanders on Thursday for his long-awaited interview. If all goes well, then he could become the team’s new offensive coordinator in 2023.
This would be a significant coup for the Commanders. Bieniemy is highly unfortunate not to be a head coach already and is coming off another Super Bowl triumph with the Kansas City Chiefs to further enhance his stock heading into the offseason.
Convincing the respected offensive mind to join Washington might be difficult. But there are some elements that could prove crucial when discussions commence.
With this in mind, here are three tempting factors that could secure Bieniemy’s services in 2023.
Factor No. 1
Commanders provide final head coaching stepping stone
While Eric Bieniemy has been unfairly overlooked for head coaching roles over the last few years despite countless interviews, that could change if he attains similar success with the Washington Commanders. This would be hard for other NFL teams to ignore.
The Commanders and Bieniemy might end up being a short-term arrangement between both parties. But it is mutually beneficial as Washington looks to emerge into a legitimate contender in their third season under Ron Rivera.
Bieniemy has a big chance to prove beyond all doubt he can lead an offense without Andy Reid. Something that might be the final stepping stone in pursuit of becoming an NFL head coach.
Commanders have a clean slate at QB
Another thing that might tempt Eric Bieniemy is the quarterback situation. That might sound strange considering the current options, but it represents a chance for a blank slate to steer the Washington Commanders back into the postseason.
Taylor Heinicke is out of contract and might not return. The Commanders are also going to release Carson Wentz after an underwhelming campaign, which comes with $26.17 million in cap savings to spend elsewhere.
This leaves Washington moving forward with Sam Howell, who flashed briefly in Week 18 but was brought along slowly throughout his rookie season. Although head coach Ron Rivera claimed the former fifth-round pick would be atop the depth chart heading into OTAs, Bieniemy’s input will be vital in what other steps the team takes next.
Bieniemy’s proven track record of unearthing talent is respected. His work alongside Patrick Mahomes has played a role in the dynamic signal-caller becoming an all-time great after just seven seasons, which has also drawn significant praise from those within the Kansas City Chiefs.
Considering the multiple avenues Washington can go down, this could make a huge difference to Bieniemy. But much will also depend on how he perceives Howell’s talent with such a small NFL sample size to go off.
Commanders have talent at the skill positions
Providing the Washington Commanders strengthen their offensive line, this is an attractive spot for any new offensive coordinator. However, this is also dependent on Sam Howell’s development and any further quarterback arrivals via free agency, the 2023 NFL Draft, or the trade market.
Looking at the skill positions, there is a lot for Eric Bieniemy to work with. The running back tandem of Brian Robinson Jr. and Antonio Gibson comes with real potential, so this can be a solid foundation to build and insulate Howell if he does get the No. 1 job.
Of course, the wide receivers shouldn’t be overlooked. Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, and Jahan Dotson would thrive in Bieniemy’s scheme, with the prospect of Dyami Brown also becoming an increasing influence something else to ponder.
Perhaps adding another productive pass-catching tight end would be beneficial. Even so, there are far worse situations for Bieniemy if the play-caller wants to prove beyond all doubt he’s worthy of a head coaching gig.
This is a big year for Ron Rivera, so having Bieniemy leading his offense would be a major shot in the arm. That’s why Thursday’s meeting must go well with so much on the line.
As stated previously, this could be a win-win for all parties. And with important dates such as free agency and scouting events upcoming, confirming a new offensive coordinator at the earliest possible opportunity is of paramount importance.