The Washington Commanders have turned to a familiar face to fill the void left by the departure of tight ends coach Ben Steele.
Ben Steele's departure came after he was arrested on a DWI charge last month and initially placed on leave. The Commanders wasted no time in finding his replacement, promoting legendary former NFL wide receiver Wes Welker to the position. Welker, a five-time Pro Bowl selection as a player, was already on Washington's staff as an offensive assistant.
Welker's experience working with the tight ends during minicamp last month while Steele was on leave proved to be an asset in his new role. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the move on Tuesday, just one day before the Commanders begin training camp.
"We haven't discussed it all the way through yet, but that's where we're headed into that space," Quinn said of the potential title change for Welker. "He's working with the tight ends moving forward here."
Welker's promotion is seen as a seamless transition, given his existing role on the staff and his experience working with the tight ends. The move is a testament to the Commanders' stability and depth, even in the midst of coaching changes.
Welker has been with the Commanders since 2024 and is well-liked by the players and coaching staff. His familiarity with the team and his experience working with the tight ends make him an ideal candidate to fill the void left by Steele's departure.
While the Commanders have been fortunate to have Welker on staff, the timing of Steele's departure still raises questions about the team's leadership and the handling of the situation.
The Commanders begin training camp on Wednesday, and it remains to be seen how the team will adapt to the changes.
Source: Yahoo Sports