Ben Johnson understood what he was signing up for when he hired Eric Bieniemy as the new running backs coach of the Chicago Bears. The man was overqualified for the position. It wouldn’t be long before he was lured elsewhere by opportunities for higher positions. Sure enough, after getting terrific seasons from D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai in 2025, the Kansas City Chiefs came calling to bring him back as their offensive coordinator. While not a surprise, it does leave the Bears with big shoes to fill.
Thankfully, it appears Johnson has an alternative in mind. Brad Biggs of the Chicago Tribune reported that a strong candidate for the job is Eric Studesville, a longtime NFL assistant who’s made his name coaching running backs for almost 30 years.
Studesville got his break in the league with Chicago in 1997. He became their wide receivers coach in 1999, getting 1400 yards from Marcus Robinson and developing Marty Booker through his first two years. In the years that followed, he built his reputation by developing future stars like Tiki Barber in New York, Willis McGahee and Marshawn Lynch in Buffalo, Knowshon Moreno in Denver, and De’Von Achane in Miami.
The Bears could do way worse replacing Eric Bieniemy.
One could argue that Studesville’s credibility is every bit as strong as the departed Bears assistant. Not only that, but he has ties to the organization from his youth and has worked with Coach Johnson already in Miami. Unlike Eric Bieniemy, there is little chance of him getting plucked elsewhere. Studesville spent several years with the Dolphins despite three coaching changes. At 58 years old, it is unlikely he will get looks for offensive coordinator or head coaching positions at this stage.
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Nothing is settled yet. There is a strong possibility that other teams will be interested in Studesville. Mike McDaniel took over as offensive coordinator in Los Angeles. He may angle to bring the coach out west to continue working together. However, keep in mind Studesville is from Madison, Wisconsin. He may wish to work closer to home as he advances in age. Chicago presents the perfect opportunity. While the Bears will miss Eric Bieniemy, they could do far worse with replacements.
