The Red Raider icon transitions from personnel analyst to tight ends coach in Washington, stepping up to lead the position group following an unexpected staff shakeup.
Wes Welker's coaching career continues to evolve, and one of the greatest players in Texas Tech football history is taking on a new challenge in the NFL.
The Washington Commanders announced that they have elevated Welker from offensive assistant to oversee the team's tight ends following the dismissal of former position coach Ben Steele earlier this week.
Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed that while Welker's official title has not yet been finalized, he will be responsible for coaching the position group as the Commanders open training camp. The move comes after Steele was fired following a violation of team policy.
For Texas Tech fans, the promotion is another milestone in a football career that has spanned more than two decades. Welker first made his name in Lubbock in 2000, becoming one of the most productive and versatile players in Red Raiders history under Mike Leach.
Despite entering college as an under-the-radar recruit, he developed into a First-Team All-Big 12 selection and finished his collegiate career with more than 3,000 receiving yards and 21 touchdown catches while contributing as a runner and return specialist.
Welker's success at Texas Tech eventually carried over to the NFL, where he built one of the most accomplished careers ever by a Red Raider alumn. After going undrafted in 2004, he carved out a 12-year professional career with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, and St. Louis Rams. Along the way, he earned five Pro Bowl selections, was named a first-team All-Pro twice, and led the NFL in receptions three different seasons.
His transition into coaching has been just as steady. Welker began his NFL coaching career with the Houston Texans before spending three seasons as the San Francisco 49ers' wide receivers coach. He later coached the same position with the Miami Dolphins before joining Washington's staff in 2025 as a personnel analyst. Earlier this offseason, the Commanders promoted him to offensive assistant, and now he has earned another opportunity with increased responsibility.
Although Welker spent nearly his entire playing career as a wide receiver, Quinn believes his experience can benefit Washington's tight ends. Welker had already worked closely with the group during the offseason after Steele was placed on leave, making the transition a natural one for the Commanders.
Welker's latest promotion is another reminder of the impact Red Raiders continue to make at football's highest level. From an overlooked recruit in Lubbock to an NFL star and now an ascending coach, Welker continues to add chapters to an already remarkable football journey.
