5 candidates to replace Jason Garrett as Cowboys head coach

2. Eric Bieniemy, Chiefs offensive coordinator

With Andy Reid having such a prominent role in the Chiefs’ offense, it’s hard to pin credit on his offensive coordinator beyond general game plan input. But the general success of Reid’s coaching tree (Doug Pederson, Matt Nagy), and Bieniemy’s experience playing running back for nine seasons in the NFL and his lengthy time as a running backs coach in the league before becoming Kansas City’s offensive coordinator, gives him the resume to become a head coach in short order.

For more evidence of Bieniemy as a top head coaching candidate, look no further than some comments last year from Chiefs’ quarterback Patrick Mahomes, via ESPN.

“He does not let me miss any detail of what the play is supposed to do, what the protection is supposed to be and that helps me a ton because when we get to the game everything is a little bit easier,” Mahomes said.

Bieniemy was also offensive coordinator at his alma mater Colorado in 2011 and 2012. While the Buffaloes won a total of four games in those seasons, he was able to broaden his understanding of offensive football.

As one of few coordinators who are cream of the crop, or may be motivated to leave their post, Bieniemy is sure to get multiple head coaching interviews during the upcoming cycle. Jones and the Cowboys should easily be on the list.