Commanders fire coach who was just hired this offseason

The Washington Commanders hired Ben Steele to lead their tight end room after seeing what he achieved with All-Pro Trey McBride on the Arizona Cardinals over the last few seasons, but on Monday, the team announced it was parting ways with its new TE coach. This organizational decision comes almost two months after the man was charged with a DWI.

“According to Virginia court records, Steele was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on June 7,” Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic reported on Monday. “He faces additional charges for refusing blood/breath test and obstructing or resisting an officer without force.”

No franchise wants to make a key staff change right before training camp begins, but the Commanders may have already found a replacement. While Steele was on leave during mandatory minicamp, offensive assistant and former All-Pro wide receiver Wes Welker coached the tight ends, per Jhabvala. The three-time NFL receptions leader served as a personnel analyst for the organization last season and operated as a WR coach for the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins.

Regardless of who Washington entrusts to replace Steele, the TE position figures to be an important aspect of the squad’s offense in 2026. Jayden Daniels formed a dangerous connection with Zach Ertz during his historic 2024 rookie season, as the latter ranked second on the team in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns.

The Commanders signed Chig Okonkwo to a three-year, $27 million contract in free agency, so fans expect the tight end slot to play a big role once again. Ben Steele’s dismissal obviously complicate matters, though. With opening kickoff less than 50 days away, Washington will try to navigate this transition as smoothly as possible.