The Kansas City Chiefs have made notable changes this offseason, adjusting their coaching staff and hiring a new offensive coordinator. While Eric Bieniemy is not new to the organization, his return brings a familiar presence to this dynasty.
If head coach Andy Reid is still running the show, what difference does it make if Nagy or Bieniemy is OC? Bieniemy brings a much-needed different coaching style, with intensity and accountability. Hearing a player not named Patrick Mahomes discuss Bieniemy’s impact was refreshing.
Trey Smith talks about Eric Bieniemy’s hire at Radio Row
“When I think of EB, I think about the first day at training camp,” right guard Trey Smith said on 810 Radio. “Deep humidity in the morning, just doing drills. He was just barking, getting after guys. For me, it’s more like EB’s mindset and mentality. At the end of the day, we’re presenting ourselves as the aggressors. This is business. That’s what’s super exciting about him. He brings who he was as a player. Very detail-oriented as well. I’m just really excited to have him back.
“You’ve got to understand he’s doing that with a purpose. He wants to see you be great. He knows potential, trying to get the best out of you. If it feels like you’re falling short of your potential in an area that can be improved, he’s going to let you know. I’d rather be held accountable in those situations than just my coach not tell me a freaking thing. Yeah, so it’s hard coaching. I love his intensity. It is one of the most unique traits. At the end of the day, you just have to understand he’s doing that because he wants to see you succeed.”
#Chiefs OL Trey Smith talks about his thoughts on the hiring of OC Eric Bieniemy 👀
Live from The Zone with @J810Anderson on Radio Row! pic.twitter.com/CGWsit5U9g
— Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) February 4, 2026
The Chiefs needed Bieniemy’s strong voice. This isn’t saying Nagy did poorly; rather, the team required a different approach. Players often give more when coaches push them out of their comfort zone. From an offensive perspective, stats aren’t a fair end-all measure, since the rosters changed—Nagy had an older Kelce, while Bieniemy’s stint featured Tyreek Hill. Still, returning Bieniemy could lead to improvement.
Since Nagy became the Chiefs’ OC in 2023 after his Bears tenure, the offense’s output has dropped: from 29 points per game in 2022, to 21 in 2023, 22 in 2024, and 21 last season. Before Nagy, Kansas City averaged at least 28 points per game throughout the Mahomes era, peaking at 35 in one season. Nagy is associated with recent offensive declines, despite personnel changes. Under Bieniemy, the offense thrived.
The Chiefs obviously see an advantage in bringing back Bieniemy, rather than re-signing Nagy. Reid and GM Brett Veach have won three Super Bowls together. Maybe we should trust what they’re doing.
