New Commanders Coach Eric Bieniemy Will 'Bring Some Energy' to Washington
ASHBURN, Va. -- February 15th was an eventful day for new Washington Commanders assistant head coach/offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy.
His day began with a Super Bowl parade for the Kansas City Chiefs. Their second such celebration in four years.
And it ended at dinner with Commanders leadership for the beginning steps of what would become the latest move in Bieniemy's NFL coaching career.
"I'm just looking forward to helping us to climb to the next level," Bieniemy said to start his introductory press conference. "And one thing your guys are going to learn about me. I'm going to bring some energy."
Bieniemy was then asked the question many have asked in the days since his hiring was made official.
Why Washington?
"Why not Washington?," Bieniemy replied. "Look at all the talent. Look at the players that they have...I'm excited about this opportunity...I have no doubt what they're building here...(and) I have never backed down from a challenge."
Bieniemy joins the Commanders after 10 years in the Chiefs organization.
But he brings much more experience as the Minnesota Vikings' running backs coach prior to his time in Kansas City, and an NFL player in the same position before that.
And one lesson he's learned in all that time is the importance of knowing his players and listening to what they have to say.
"When it's all said and done with...this is a people business," Bieniemy said. "It's my job to make (and) ensure that I get to know the people, so I can get the best out of the player."
To those on the outside, it feels like there's a lot of time between today and when Washington will next meet as a team to start the installation of Bieniemy's offense.
And in that time the coach says he'll spend more time diving even deeper into figuring out who his players are through tape study and text messages - which we're happy to report all players are replying to their new assistant head coach/offensive coordinator.
For the players, what they can expect from Bieniemy is an atmosphere of effort required and earning every rep.
"You don't work, you don't eat," Bieniemy said while describing his mentality and approach to the game.
His players with the Chiefs have been eating well these past five seasons.
Here's hoping his Commanders players get fed just as well.
Find David Harrison on Twitter @DHarrison82 and on the Locked On Commanders podcast.
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