Stephen A. Smith has undergone a shift in his perspective regarding Eric Bieniemy following the NFL’s recent increase in the percentage of black head coaches. Smith now suggests that Bieniemy may be facing challenges that extend beyond the league’s hiring practices.
Despite being widely considered a top candidate for NFL head coaching positions, Bieniemy surprised many by accepting the role of offensive coordinator at UCLA. This decision raised eyebrows, especially considering his instrumental role in the Kansas City Chiefs’ offensive success during two Super Bowl victories.
Smith, on his podcast, expressed his frustration with Bieniemy’s career trajectory, highlighting the disparity between Bieniemy’s numerous interviews for head coaching positions and his failure to secure a job. Smith questioned whether there may be underlying issues during the interview process that are hindering Bieniemy’s chances.
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‘I’m saying that during the interview process, something has to be you if you have gotten 15 different interviews from 14 different franchises. And other Blacks have been hired and not you. The reality is that the NFL is hiring Black coaches now. They just aren’t Eric Bieniemy.’
While Smith acknowledges Bieniemy’s football acumen and impressive resume, he suggests that something may be amiss during the interview process. He points out that other black coaches have been hired while Bieniemy has been repeatedly overlooked.
Smith also questions whether Bieniemy’s decision to take an offensive coordinator position at the collegiate level will help further his aspirations of becoming an NFL head coach. He suggests that Bieniemy’s move to UCLA, rather than pursuing a head coaching job at the college level, may not enhance his chances in the NFL. This follows a recent report highlighting the absence of black offensive coordinators across the entire NFL.
Ultimately, Smith’s remarks underscore the complexities surrounding Bieniemy’s career and the challenges he may face in achieving his goal of becoming an NFL head coach.
