Ben Steele has spent years building a reputation as one of the NFL’s respected tight ends coaches. After helping develop elite talent with the Arizona Cardinals, he joined the Washington Commanders ahead of the 2026 NFL season. However, his tenure with the franchise ended abruptly after an off-field incident that led to his dismissal.
This article covers Ben Steele’s football career, coaching experience, NFL background, arrest, and what happened with the Washington Commanders.
Who Is Ben Steele?
Ben Steele is an American football coach and former NFL tight end. Born on May 27, 1978, in Palisade, Colorado, Steele played college football at Fort Lewis College before transferring to Mesa State College (now Colorado Mesa University).
Although he entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent, Steele earned opportunities with several organizations, including the Green Bay Packers and Houston Texans. His playing career eventually transitioned into coaching, where he found long-term success.
Ben Steele’s Football Playing Career
Steele’s professional football journey included time with multiple NFL franchises before becoming a coach.
His NFL experience includes:
- Green Bay Packers
- Houston Texans
- Minnesota Vikings
- San Francisco 49ers
- Oakland Raiders
- Seattle Seahawks
During his regular-season career with Green Bay, Steele appeared primarily as a tight end and special teams contributor, recording four receptions for 42 receiving yards.
Ben Steele’s NFL Coaching Career
Following retirement, Steele quickly entered coaching and steadily climbed through the professional ranks.
His coaching stops include:
- Colorado Mesa
- Colorado Buffaloes
- California Golden Bears
- UC Davis
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Atlanta Falcons
- Minnesota Vikings
- Denver Broncos
- Arizona Cardinals
- Washington Commanders
His biggest coaching success came with the Arizona Cardinals, where he helped develop Pro Bowl tight end Trey McBride into one of the NFL’s premier receiving tight ends. Under Steele’s guidance, McBride produced consecutive outstanding seasons and became one of the league’s most productive players at the position.
Ben Steele Joins the Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders hired Ben Steele during the 2026 offseason as their new tight ends coach after promoting David Raih to offensive pass game coordinator.
Head coach Dan Quinn added Steele because of his experience developing young tight ends and his strong reputation throughout the NFL coaching community.
Washington hoped Steele would help improve a young offense featuring quarterback Jayden Daniels and several developing offensive weapons.
Ben Steele Arrest Explained
Ben Steele’s time with the Commanders became overshadowed by legal issues.
According to multiple reports, Steele was arrested in Virginia on June 7, 2026, on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI). Authorities also charged him with:
- Refusing a blood or breath test
- Obstructing or resisting an officer without force
- A traffic-related violation
Following the incident, the Commanders placed Steele on leave while reviewing the situation.
Washington Commanders Fire Ben Steele
Just before the start of training camp, the Washington Commanders officially announced they were parting ways with Ben Steele.
The organization stated that Steele violated team policy but declined to provide additional details beyond the brief announcement.
Reports indicated offensive assistant Wes Welker handled tight end responsibilities during Steele’s absence while the team prepared to name a permanent replacement.
What Happened Next?
Steele’s dismissal marked one of the first major off-field stories surrounding the Commanders before the 2026 NFL season.
Although his coaching résumé includes successful work with multiple organizations and the development of standout players, his future in the NFL will likely depend on how the legal process unfolds and whether another franchise offers him an opportunity.
No additional public comments have been made by the Commanders beyond confirming his departure.
Ben Steele Coaching Highlights
Despite the recent controversy, Steele has built an extensive coaching résumé:
- More than a decade of coaching experience
- Former NFL tight end
- Developed Trey McBride into a Pro Bowl performer
- Worked with the Buccaneers, Falcons, Vikings, Broncos, Cardinals, and Commanders
- Known for player development and offensive coaching expertise
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ben Steele?
Ben Steele is a former NFL tight end and football coach who most recently served as the Washington Commanders’ tight ends coach.
Why did the Commanders fire Ben Steele?
The Commanders dismissed Steele after stating he violated team policy following his June 2026 DWI arrest.
What was Ben Steele arrested for?
He was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI) and also faced charges related to refusing a blood or breath test and resisting or obstructing an officer without force.
Which NFL teams has Ben Steele coached?
He has coached for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Arizona Cardinals, and Washington Commanders.
Conclusion
Ben Steele‘s NFL career has included valuable contributions both as a player and as a coach. His work with developing tight ends, particularly Trey McBride in Arizona, established him as a respected offensive coach. However, his brief stint with the Washington Commanders ended after his arrest and subsequent dismissal for violating team policy. As the legal process continues, Steele’s future in professional football remains uncertain.
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