Commanders promote Wes Welker after firing TE coach

Wes Welker manned the tight ends unit while the Washington Commanders decided what to do about Ben Steele, and the two-time First-Team All-Pro wide receiver will now assume the role on a full-time basis. The organization is officially promoting him, per Mike Garafolo of NFL Network.

The Commanders fired Steele — who was hired as the TE coach in March — roughly a month and a half after he was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Virginia. He was initially tapped to be an important member of Dan Quinn’s revamped coaching staff following his lauded work with Arizona Cardinals star Trey McBride. Free-agent signing Chig Okonkwo was hoping to enjoy a career year with Steele, but now Welker will take on that responsibility.

The undrafted and undersized wideout shined for both the New England Patriots and Denver Broncos, leading the NFL in receptions in three different seasons (2007, 2009 and 2011). Concussions ultimately accelerated his retirement and forced him to consider a new path in his mid-30s. Welker stuck with football and eventually transitioned to coaching.

The five-time Pro Bowler started as an offensive and special teams assistant for the Houston Texans in 2017, served as the WR coach for the San Francisco 49ers and Miami Dolphins and worked as a personnel analyst for the Commanders last season. He was set to be an offensive assistant for the upcoming campaign, but Steele’s dismissal will now thrust him into the tight end room.

Zach Ertz greatly aided Jayden Daniels in his meteoric rise into stardom in 2024, and following a rough 2025 for the squad, Washington is trusting Okonkwo and the rest of the position group to help the young quarterback get back on track. This process will now run directly through Wes Welker.