Commanders deep dive: How Eric Bieniemy's past can shape Washington's future

Who is Eric Bieniemy?

Eric Bieniemy was a high school All-American running back in California before committing to play at the University of Colorado. He earned a starting role for the Buffaloes as a true freshman before earning all-conference honors as a sophomore, rushing for more than 1,200 yards with 10 touchdowns during the 1988 season.

The bruising back rose to stardom as a senior in 1990, winning the Big Eight Conference Offensive Player of the Year award and finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting for good measure.

In a spectacular season to remember, the unanimous All-American rushed for more than 1,600 yards and 17 scores. Bieniemy also led Colorado to a national championship and an 11-1-1 record with an Orange Bowl win over Notre Dame.

After finishing his collegiate career as the program's all-time leader in rushing yards, rushing touchdowns, and all-purpose yards, the former Heisman finalist was selected by the then-San Diego Chargers in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft.

Bieniemy played for nine seasons in the NFL, used mostly as a backup change-of-pace option and return specialist for the Chargers, Cincinnati Bengals, and Philadelphia Eagles. His playing days ended with his retirement in 1999.