Eric Bieniemy contract buyout: How much does UCLA reportedly owe its fired OC?

The UCLA Bruins and Eric Bieniemy have gone their separate ways after a disappointing 2024 college football season. The Bruins ended the 2024 regular season without bowl game eligibility and fired Eric Bieniemy after a solitary season.

Following the news, let's examine how much the Bruins owe Bieniemy and how the parties got to this stage.

How much does UCLA owe Eric Bieniemy?

According to Pete Thamel, the UCLA Bruins owe Eric Bieniemy $1.2 million in buyout money. The Bruins and Bieniemy are expected to negotiate the buyout and reach an acceptable figure shortly.

An ESPN report states that Jason Fletcher, Bieniemy’s agent, said the offensive coordinator's plan was always to return to the NFL for the 2025 season.

The Bruins are rumored to be interested in Indiana Hoosiers quarterbacks coach Tino Sunseri for the now-vacant offensive coordinator position. However, they'll need to wait as the Hoosiers will likely be part of the expanded college football playoffs after their performances in the just concluded regular season.

How did the UCLA Bruins perform this season?

The UCLA Bruins were 5-7 in 2024 and mustered a disappointing 3-6 in the Big Ten conference. The Bruins averaged a meager 18.4 points and never looked capable of winning a shootout for the season.

Eric Bieniemy was appointed as a running back coach and offensive coordinator at the highest level due to his past successes. However, the Bruins looked toothless in multiple games. With each passing game, the Bruins and Bieniemy edged closer to the latter's firing.

The Bruins have now parted ways with Bieniemy, opening the door for the former Kansas City Chiefs OC to return to a familiar environment. As for the Bruins, they'll likely take the time to employ an offensive coordinator who fits the philosophy that they are trying to foster at UCLA.