As the Chicago Bears’ rookie minicamp ended last Sunday, Eric Bieniemy, the former Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders offensive coordinator, now serving as the Bears' running backs coach, has quickly established his presence and influence on the field.
Bieniemy's coaching style is fiery and vocal. He isn't shy about shouting instructions and using NSFW language to ensure his players understand the importance of precision and effort in every drill they go through. His approach is expected to significantly improve the Bears' running game, with Bieniemy's expertise guiding the rookies and veterans alike.
"Don't touch the cones!" - Eric Bieniemy applying pressure to his young RBs 🤬 pic.twitter.com/PSTeK7UNss
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) May 10, 2025
His intensity is already resonating with the rookies, who are experiencing firsthand the high standards Bieniemy set. Rookie 7th-round pick running back Kyle Monangai has already praised his impact, highlighting the coach's wealth of experience and the valuable insights he brings to the team. Despite being a 7th-round pick, Monangai is highly thought of, and it is a good sign that he took Bieniemy's coaching style well.
Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle also noted Bieniemy's influence, emphasizing how his experience as a former offensive coordinator and passion benefit the entire offensive staff. Bieniemy's presence is set to be a game-changer, potentially leading to an uptick in performance across the board.
As the Bears continue their off-season workouts, both veterans, D'Andre Sweat and Roschon Johnson, are expected to join during OTAs at some point. Bieniemy already had some things to say about Swift's performance last season when he was interviewed by Bears play-by-play man Jeff Joniak on a Bears podcast back in March. Bieniemy pointed out that Swift kept looking for big plays and putting the team in 2nd or 3rd and long situations rather than running between the tackles and gaining 4-5 yards.
Johnson scored six touchdowns in 2024, but his scores mostly came from being used as a goal-line back. He gained 150 yards on just 55 carries last season, and also suffered a concussion and missed several games. He and Swift will no doubt have Beiniemy's full attention once the OTAs begin. Both veterans must impress Bieniemy quickly, or the Bears might be forced to sign a veteran back (Nick Chubb, JK Dobbins?) before training camp.
You can bet Beiniemy will do all he can to bring out the best in every one of them. Even if it means he has to be loud and use foul language to get their attention.