The Washington Commanders parted ways with tight ends coach Ben Steele shortly before training camp. They confirmed his departure via a social media post, adding that they would not be commenting any further on the matter at this time.
However, it didn't take long for other reports to surface.
According to Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic, Steele was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated on June 7. He also faces additional charges for refusing blood and breath tests, in addition to obstructing or resisting an officer without force.
Commanders expected to announce replacement for Ben Steele before training camp
While this came out of the blue, Steele has not been part of the Commanders' setup since minicamp, as he was placed on leave after informing the franchise of his arrest. Wes Welker coached the tight end unit in his absence, and he has now been let go for violating team policy.
Jhabvala also revealed that head coach Dan Quinn is expected to announce his replacement on Tuesday, on the eve of Washington's first training camp practice in Ashburn.
There was significant intrigue around Steele's arrival in Washington. He spent three productive seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, where he was instrumental in turning Trey McBride into an elite-level pass-catcher at the position. With free-agent signing Chig Okonkwo, John Bates, and 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott, he also had a decent amount to work with on the Commanders.
Now, that won't happen.
The Commanders run a tight ship, and issues like this are not looked upon favorably by those in power. Steele found that out to his cost, and an extremely uncertain future now awaits.
It's not ideal, especially with so much at stake for Washington this season. Quinn will roll with the punches, and he's experienced enough not to let this become too much of an issue. Who they replace Steele with is also key, given how much new offensive coordinator David Blough is expected to use the tight end position in his new system.
The Commanders took decisive action. They have no room for unwanted distractions and highly value discipline. Steele was removed from the equation swiftly, and getting this out of the way before the heat is turned up at training camp puts the focus firmly on football and nothing more.
Just the way it should be.
It's an unfortunate situation for Steele and the Commanders. But given Quinn's mindset, this was only going to end one way.
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