Aug. 9 (UPI) — The Washington Commanders initially faced difficulties adapting to the tough coaching style of offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. However, Bieniemy confidently states that he is already witnessing positive outcomes as he strives to elevate the team’s offense to new heights.
During a news conference on Tuesday, Bieniemy addressed concerns raised by players about his aggressive and vocal coaching style, which had been brought to the attention of head coach Ron Rivera.
“We all have to step out of our comfort zones in order to grow comfortable,” said Bieniemy. “I have certain demands and expectations that I hold my team to. My expectation is for us to fulfill our potential as a team.
“The process isn’t easy, and not everyone will appreciate it… but they understand it because they can see the results.”
The Commanders hired Bieniemy in February following his successful ten-year tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs. Although widely respected for his coaching abilities, he had been overlooked for numerous head coaching positions in recent years.
Rivera acknowledged players’ concerns about Bieniemy’s coaching style, encouraging them to engage in dialogues with the offensive coordinator. Rivera described these conversations as enlightening and affirmed that Bieniemy’s approach will not be altered.
“It’s an entirely different approach,” Rivera explained. “The type of player coming into the league has changed, especially considering the trends in college football. Many of these young players struggle with various challenges.”
Addressing his coaching style, which he characterized as tough and hard-nosed, Bieniemy expressed his commitment to proactively discussing it with players to avoid any potential issues.
“Before anything escalates, I proactively address the matter,” Bieniemy stated. “As a coach, it is crucial for me to be observant and understand the individuals I am working with. It is my responsibility to address any concerns that may arise.
“If a player has an issue, I encourage them to bring it up for discussion… It becomes their responsibility. They must understand that we are operating in a professional setting, among grown men.”
“I pride myself on over-communicating clearly. My intention is never personal. What is personal, however, is my desire to win. I expect every player to consistently strive for greatness and uphold a standard accepted by all of us. If they fall short, it is my duty to address it.”
Rivera pointed out that defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, having previously held a head coaching role, tends to have a better understanding of players’ personalities compared to the new offensive coordinator.
“Eric has his approach, and he firmly believes in it,” Rivera commented. “Jack, having been a head coach, takes the time to try to understand players on a deeper level. He is more inclined to say, ‘Alright, let’s figure this out,’ as opposed to simply enforcing his approach.”
Several Commanders players, including offensive lineman Andrew Wylie, came to Bieniemy’s defense after Rivera spoke about his coaching style. Wylie, who had played under Bieniemy during his time with the Chiefs, described him as an incredibly intense individual.
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who also played under Bieniemy while with the Chiefs, took to Twitter to support his former coach.
“Man, there is no other coach that has your back like E.B.,” Hill tweeted. “Embrace the coaching and strive to improve. We’ve all been through it. It’s tough, but I promise it will make you better.”
Bieniemy faces the challenge of transforming a Commanders offense that ranked ninth-lowest in points scored during the previous NFL season. In contrast, with Bieniemy on board, along with coach Andy Reid and quarterback Patrick Mahomes, the Chiefs have enjoyed a top-six scoring offense every year since 2016. Additionally, the Commanders have only achieved a top-ten scoring offense twice in the past 23 years.
The Commanders will kick off their preseason against the Cleveland Browns at 7:30 p.m. EDT on Friday, in Cleveland.
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