NFL coach fired a day before training camp in 20-word statement after ‘violating team policy’
The Washington Commanders have made a change to their coaching staff just one day before the beginning of training camp.
In a statement posted to X, the team announced that they have fired tight-ends coach Ben Steele on the eve of heading to Ashburn, Virginia.
“We are parting ways with tight ends coach Ben Steele. The team will have no further comment at this time,” the statement read.
The Athletic’s Nicki Jhabvala reported that Steele was dismissed due to a violation of team policy.
She added that the 48-year-old was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on June, 7, and faces charges for refusing to take a blood/breath test and obstruction or resisting an officer without force.
She continued by adding that Steele informed the Commanders of the arrest, and he was placed on paid leave.
In his absence, assistant tight-ends coach Wes Welker handled proceedings at minicamp.
Washington’s head coach Dan Quinn is expected to name his replacement when the full squad arrives in Virginia Tuesday.
Steele was hired by the franchise this offseason, replacing David Raih who was promoted to offensive passing-game coordinator.
It was a group that perhaps needed a fresh voice, with Zach Ertz leading the room with 504 yards and four touchdowns in 2025 before suffering a season-ending injury.
Steele joined from the Arizona Cardinals and was most known for helping shape Trey McBride into a superstar.
2026 marked the second year in a row McBride snatched over 100 catches, an NFL record, and he led the position in yards with 1,239.
Steele’s first coaching opportunity came at the conclusion of his playing career.
He worked as a college assistant with the Colorado Buffaloes and University of California before his first NFL opportunity came with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Steele himself played a part in six seasons in the NFL, appearing in just 17 games.
He played in 15 games for the Green Bay Packers in 2004, and two in 2005.
Steele caught four passes for 42 yards and no touchdowns during his time in the league.
He would also spend time within the San Francisco 49ers, Las Vegas Raiders, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings and Houston Texans respective organizations.
Losing a trusted tight ends coach right before camp is an unexpected hurdle for Washington’s coaching staff.
However, with familiar voices still in the building, and a replacement less than 24 hours way, Dan Quinn can continue his ambition to get the franchise back on track following their disappointing 2025 campaign.
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