KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Eric Bieniemy knew the question was coming. The reporter who asked knew the answer he would be getting.
Bieniemy, 51, who has served as offensive coordinator for the Chiefs the last three seasons, was asked Thursday about interviewing for five NFL head coaching vacancies during the Kansas City's bye week. He delivered the company line.
"First of all, it was an honor and a privilege," Bieniemy said of the head coach interview circuit. "But that's not what we're here for. We're here to talk about the Cleveland Browns."
It is an odd position candidates like Bieniemy are put in each year. Their current team is still playing football while their future employment is still being decided.
"We eliminate all distractions, OK?" Bieniemy said. "At the end of the day, my focus and attention is on the Cleveland Browns. This is a great team and they're playing some great ball."
He's right. More postseason wins can only bolster a coaching resume that already includes winning Super Bowl LIV. His next opportunity to add more accolades comes Sunday in the AFC Divisional round against the Browns.
"We're looking forward to this challenge," Bieniemy said. "I know our guys are fired up and excited. They're refreshed. They've hit the reset button. Now, it's time to go out there and show them what we're about."
Bieniemy interviewed for the Browns head coaching position around this time last year.
Ultimately, Kevin Stefanski got the job and now he leads Cleveland into Arrowhead Stadium for a 2:05 p.m. kickoff with a berth in the AFC Championship Game on the line.