Bears Lose Key Coach, Vikings Secure Eric Bieniemy’s Return

The NFL coaching landscape is in flux, particularly in the NFC North. Teams are making notable changes as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Bears Lose Key Coach: Eric Bieniemy Returns to Chiefs

The Chicago Bears have recently lost Eric Bieniemy, their running backs coach, who has rejoined the Kansas City Chiefs as their new offensive coordinator. Bieniemy played a vital role in the Bears’ success this season, helping to create one of the league’s top rushing attacks.

In the 2025 season, Chicago finished third in the NFL for rushing yards, averaging 144.5 yards per game. They also ranked third in yards per carry at 4.9. These impressive statistics can be attributed, in part, to Bieniemy’s coaching and the performance of players like D’Andre Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai.

Achievements Under Bieniemy

• D’Andre Swift: 1,087 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, a career high.
• Kyle Monangai: 783 rushing yards at an impressive 4.6 yards per carry.

With Bieniemy’s departure, questions arise about how the Bears will maintain their rushing dominance. The new offensive strategies will be crucial in the upcoming seasons.

Vikings Secure Brian Flores’ Future

In contrast, the Minnesota Vikings have taken steps to secure their defensive coordinator, Brian Flores, by extending his contract. This decision comes after speculation surrounding Flores’ potential departure, including interviews for defensive coordinator positions with other teams.

Flores had previously interviewed for the Washington Commanders and was also considered for the head coaching role with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His legal issues with the NFL have led some to doubt his chances for a head coaching position, but his ability to strengthen the Vikings’ defense cannot be overstated. Under his leadership, the Vikings have finished seventh, fifth, and thirteenth in points allowed over the past seasons.

Vikings Defensive Performance

• Defensive rankings under Flores: 7th, 5th, and 13th in points allowed.
• Against the Lions: Allowed just 24 and 10 points in two matchups, including a season-low 231 yards in Week 17.

As the NFC North teams make significant coaching changes, the dynamics of upcoming games could be greatly affected. Both the Bears and Vikings face critical transitions that will shape their strategies for next season.