Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes responds to Eric Bieniemy, Commanders controversy

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes earned two Super Bowl rings with Eric Bieniemy serving as his offensive coordinator and responded Friday to the potential controversy involving the current Washington Commanders OC and assistant head coach.

"I think I saw EB said it perfect. EB is going to be harsh on you. He’s going to really try to get the best out of you every single day," Mahomes explained, as shared by Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk. "He’s going to hold you accountable whenever you don’t even want to hold yourself accountable. And it made me a better player." 

After Commanders head coach Ron Rivera revealed earlier this week that some Washington players didn't love Bieniemy's intense nature and personality during practices, Bieniemy responded by saying that he "is who he is" and is "a tough, hard-nosed coach." 

Bieniemy added at that time that he was going to be the players' "No. 1 fan because I've got their back and I'm gonna support them at all times." 

Mahomes echoed his former coach's words on Friday. 

"I think what he said that was the biggest thing is that he’s your No. 1 supporter, though," the two-time regular-season Most Valuable Player continued about Bieniemy. "He will go to war with you just like any other guy on your team. And you’ve got to know that. And you’ve got to know when he’s talking to you on the football field, that he’s trying to get the best out of you. He’s not trying to put you down. He’s trying to push you to be even better than you think you can be." 

Rumors from as far back as at least December 2021 suggested Mahomes and Bieniemy didn't always enjoy the best relationship while working together. Per stories, friction between the two may or may not be linked to the fact that Bieniemy hasn't yet received a head-coaching job at the highest level despite his successes as a coordinator.