5 leading candidates if the Panthers cut ties with head coach Matt Rhule
By Dean Jones
Eric Bieniemy
Just why Eric Bieniemy hasn’t got a head coaching job yet remains a mystery. If it doesn’t happen next spring, it comes down to either interviewing poorly or the system in place.
Perhaps even both.
Bieniemy is the mastermind alongside Andy Reid that propelled the Kansas City Chiefs and their high-octane offense to a Super Bowl. Although having a magician like Patrick Mahomes under center didn’t exactly hurt.
The offensive coordinator deserves credit for getting the Chiefs out of their slump earlier this season. They are now a lively contender to lift the Vince Lombardi Trophy once again and if Kansas City can accomplish this, then Bieniemy might get a top job after so long.
Another factor to consider is Bieniemy’s contract, which runs out at the end of the season. The Chiefs would have a hard job finding someone better in all honesty because managing so many stars is more difficult than it appears from the outside looking in.
The Carolina Panthers interviewed Bieniemy as a potential candidate to replace Ron Rivera before they eventually went with Matt Rhule. Whether David Tepper would go back and discuss things further with the coach is another matter entirely.
Cam Newton’s return was a strong indicator that Tepper will do what’s needed to boost the Panthers on and off the field. And someone like Bieniemy could ignite this offense if the right offensive line upgrades are made.