Chiefs Reload the Sidelines: A Closer Look at Kansas City’s New Coaching Additions
The Kansas City Chiefs may have wrapped up their 2025 campaign earlier than they’re used to, but if you think they’ve been sitting idle this offseason, think again. The front office has been busy reshaping the coaching staff, bringing in a mix of familiar faces and fresh minds in an effort to address the shortcomings that derailed their title defense.
Let’s break down the notable hires and what they mean for the Chiefs heading into 2026.
Eric Bieniemy Returns as Offensive Coordinator
Let’s start with the headline: Eric Bieniemy is back in Kansas City.
After a few years away, the longtime Andy Reid lieutenant is returning to the role he held from 2018 to 2022, this time with a broader perspective and some fresh ideas. Bieniemy spent time with the Washington Commanders and UCLA before overseeing the running backs in Chicago last season-a stint that saw D’Andre Swift enjoy a breakout year and the Bears take the NFC North crown.
Bieniemy’s return isn’t just a reunion-it’s a reset. The Chiefs’ offense lacked its usual punch in 2025, often looking more predictable than potent. Bieniemy has made it clear that his time away gave him a wider lens.
“More than anything, you develop patience. You develop a broad view of things,” Bieniemy said in January. “Anybody can call plays, but you’ve got to make sure that you are doing what’s best for those players in that particular time.”
That’s the kind of insight that comes from experience. Bieniemy knows the system, but he’s also seen what works-and what doesn’t-outside the Kingdom. That blend of familiarity and evolution could be the spark this offense needs.
DeMarco Murray Hired as Running Backs Coach
One of the most glaring issues for Kansas City last season was the ground game-or lack thereof. Enter DeMarco Murray, the former NFL rushing champ and 2014 Offensive Player of the Year.
Murray’s name carries weight, but this isn’t just a PR move. He’s been building his coaching résumé since 2019, first with Arizona and then with Oklahoma, where he coached from 2020 through 2025. While OU’s run game didn’t always light up the stat sheet, the context matters-quarterback-heavy systems and shifting personnel made consistency tough to come by.
Still, Murray’s football IQ and firsthand experience as a high-level NFL back make him a compelling addition. And let’s not overlook the synergy here: both he and Bieniemy are former NFL running backs. That shared background could bring a much-needed edge and identity to a position group that struggled to find its footing last year.
Chad O’Shea Takes Over as Wide Receivers Coach
The Chiefs’ wide receiver room was under the microscope all season, and after parting ways with Connor Embree, Kansas City brought in a seasoned hand in Chad O’Shea.
O’Shea’s coaching journey began in Kansas City back in 2003, and he’s since logged nearly two decades of experience coaching wideouts. His résumé includes stops in Minnesota, New England (where he won three Super Bowls), Miami, and most recently, Cleveland.
This isn’t just about experience-it’s about credibility. O’Shea has worked with some of the game’s best: Randy Moss, Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, Deion Branch, Chad Johnson, Amari Cooper. That’s a who’s who of elite receivers, and it gives O’Shea the kind of insight that can resonate with a young, developing WR corps.
After a 2025 season where drops, miscommunications, and inconsistent route-running plagued the passing game, O’Shea’s arrival feels like a stabilizing force.
Terry Bradden Jr. Returns as Assistant Defensive Line Coach
On the defensive side, another familiar face is back: Terry Bradden Jr. After spending 2025 with Nebraska, he returns to Kansas City, where he previously helped coach the defensive line from 2021 to 2024.
That means Bradden was part of all five Super Bowl appearances under Andy Reid. He knows the culture, the expectations, and-most importantly-he knows Chris Jones.
Jones had a down year in 2025, and while he’s entering his 12th NFL season, the Chiefs are still counting on him to anchor the defensive front. Reuniting him with a coach he thrived under could be a key piece in getting the All-Pro tackle back to his disruptive best.
Nate Pagan Joins as Offensive Quality Control Coach
Nate Pagan may not be a household name, but his addition adds another layer to the offensive brain trust. Pagan spent nine years at Villanova, seven of those coaching wide receivers. Now, he steps into the NFL as an offensive quality control coach-a role that’s all about the details.
These coaches dig into film, break down tendencies, and help game plan against opposing defenses. Given Pagan’s background in the passing game, he’ll likely be working closely with O’Shea to help elevate a WR unit that underwhelmed in 2025.
CJ Cox Named Defensive Quality Control Coach
On the other side of the ball, CJ Cox steps into a similar role on defense. Cox has built his résumé coaching defensive backs, most recently at Coastal Carolina. He also spent time with the Chiefs during the 2022 and 2023 seasons as part of the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship.
His specialty in the secondary aligns well with Steve Spagnuolo’s aggressive, blitz-heavy scheme. With Spags often dialing up pressure from the back end, having a coach like Cox who understands the intricacies of DB play could help tighten up a unit that had its ups and downs last season.
Bottom Line
Kansas City’s offseason coaching overhaul isn’t just about change-it’s about course correction. After falling short of their usual postseason standards, the Chiefs are betting on a mix of proven NFL minds and fresh perspectives to get them back on track.
There’s continuity in bringing back coaches like Bieniemy, Bradden, and O’Shea-guys who understand the DNA of this franchise. But there’s also upside in rolling the dice on emerging voices like Murray, Pagan, and Cox.
The Chiefs aren’t rebuilding. They’re retooling. And if these moves click, don’t be surprised if this coaching staff plays a big role in putting Kansas City right back in the Super Bowl conversation.