The Washington Commanders begin training camp on Wednesday, but on Monday, one day before veterans report, they delivered some surprising news. Washington was parting ways with first-year tight ends coach Ben Steele.
It was shocking news at first, but his recent arrest violated team rules, leading the Commanders to fire Steele.
The first thought here is the timing. It's less than ideal. Washington is looking for a new position coach just as training camp begins. However, there's no need to worry, as it appears the Commanders already have their replacement on staff.
Steele was arrested on June 7. Washington held its mandatory minicamp from June 16-18. The Commanders placed Steele on leave, and longtime NFL star and five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver
Wes Welker worked with Washington's tight ends. Welker joined Washington in 2025 as a personnel analyst. This offseason, he was moved to an offensive assistant position, allowing him to help out at multiple spots.
It now appears that Welker will be Washington's new tight ends coach. Head coach Dan Quinn meets with the media on Tuesday, where it's expected he will have some sort of announcement. Of course, Welker working with Washington's tight ends during the minicamp doesn't mean he'll be the pick, but it makes the most sense. He served as a wide receivers coach for the 49ers and Dolphins before coming to Washington, so he has full-time coaching experience.
The Commanders could also move offensive pass game coordinator David Raih back into the role, but that seems less likely. Raih received a promotion from new offensive coordinator David Blough this offseason and has coached Washington's tight ends the last two years. Raih can remain in his role and just assist Welker if/when he needs it.
So, while moving on from a position coach on the eve of training camp isn't ideal, the Commanders appear to be positioned well to replace Steele.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: 5-time Pro Bowler could become Commanders new TE coach
