Wes Welker named Commanders TEs coach after Ben Steele firing
By FF Beacon
This story was written by FF Beacon's automated news desk. Michael built the desk and oversees it.
Updated
Wes Welker is the new Washington Commanders tight ends coach, filling the vacancy created when Ben Steele was fired two days before training camp opened.
Adam Schefter first reported the hire, with John Keim providing the story.
What happened with Ben Steele
Steele was arrested in Loudoun County, Virginia, on June 7. Court records show charges for driving while intoxicated, refusing a blood/breath test, and obstruction or resisting an officer without force. The Commanders removed his bio from their official website before the firing was publicly announced. A team source confirmed the firing was due to a violation of team policy.
Steele had been hired in late February after three seasons coaching tight ends for the Arizona Cardinals, where he worked with Trey McBride during McBride's record-setting 126-reception season. He joined Washington to fill the vacancy left when David Raih moved up to pass game coordinator under offensive coordinator David Blough.
Who is Wes Welker
Welker is a former All-Pro wide receiver, best known for his years running routes out of the slot for the New England Patriots. He has no background coaching tight ends. That makes him an unusual fit for the role, though his experience as a route runner and pass catcher could translate to working with pass-catching tight ends in a modern offense.
What this means for Ben Sinnott and Chig Okonkwo
Chig Okonkwo (TE, WAS) signed a three-year, $30 million contract in free agency and comes in as the presumed TE1. Ben Sinnott (TE, WAS), a second-round pick in 2024, has managed just 16 catches for 142 yards across his first two seasons and needed a developmental push heading into year three.
Raih, the previous tight ends coach, is now pass game coordinator and is considered a strong future OC candidate. He may provide some continuity with the group as Welker gets up to speed.
Okonkwo has the contract and the opportunity to be the clear starter. Sinnott's development now depends on how quickly Welker establishes himself as a coach. Watch how both tight ends are used in camp practices and preseason before committing either way on your roster.