Dan Quinn Tabs Wes Welker to Lead Commanders Tight Ends After Ben Steele’s Dismissal
The Washington Commanders have moved quickly to stabilize their coaching staff following the dismissal of tight ends coach Ben Steele. Head coach Dan Quinn announced Tuesday that offensive assistant Wes Welker will work with the team’s tight ends, taking over the position group after Steele was fired following his DWI arrest.
The decision comes just one day after Washington officially parted ways with Steele, who had been arrested in Loudoun County, Virginia, in June on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. Court records also show Steele faces additional charges related to refusing a blood or breath test and obstruction/resisting an officer without force. The Commanders cited a violation of team policy when announcing his dismissal and declined further comment.
According to reports and Quinn’s comments Tuesday, Welker will handle the tight ends rather than the team making an immediate outside hire. The move provides continuity as Washington opens training camp and begins preparations for the 2026 season.
Welker is one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history. A five-time Pro Bowler and three-time NFL receptions leader, he joined Washington in 2025 as a personnel analyst before transitioning to an offensive assistant role for the 2026 season. While his coaching background has primarily focused on wide receivers, his offensive experience and football IQ made him a logical internal solution for Quinn.
The coaching change comes at an important time for the Commanders’ offense. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz remains a key leader, while the organization hopes continued development from the position group will help improve an offense looking to rebound in 2026. Maintaining consistency during training camp will be critical as new offensive coordinator David Blough installs his system.
Steele had been expected to bring strong credentials to Washington after helping develop standout tight end Trey McBride during his time with the Arizona Cardinals. However, his tenure with the Commanders lasted only a few months before ending abruptly because of the off-field incident.
MSB Analysis
Dan Quinn acted decisively to avoid allowing an off-field distraction to linger as training camp begins. Rather than rushing to hire a replacement, promoting Wes Welker into the role on an interim basis gives Washington an experienced football mind who already knows the offensive staff and players.
The move should provide stability while allowing Quinn and the front office time to determine whether Welker remains the long-term answer or if the team will pursue another tight ends coach later in camp. For now, the focus shifts back to football as the Commanders prepare for a pivotal 2026 season.
