The Falcons had a tight ends coaching vacancy following Mike Mularkey’s decision to retire at the end of the season. And instead of going outside of the organization to fill the role, Quinn has promoted someone internally. Ben Steele, formerly an offensive assistant that worked with Mularkey last year, will assume the position.
On the hire, Dan Quinn had this to say:
“Ben has had a positive impact on tight ends he has worked with including our own and this move is well earned.”
Steele helped Hooper to the best season of his career in 2019, and prior to that, he spent two years under Dirk Koetter with the Tampa Buccaneers. During that time, O.J. Howard and Cameron Brate blossomed into one of the most feared tight ends duos in the NFL. Steele may not have the resumé of Mularkey, but after six professional seasons as a player and many more as a coach, he’s deserving of this promotion. However, how tough his job will be next season has yet to be determined.
The Falcons have a decision to make this offseason regarding their two-time Pro-Bowl tight end, Austin Hooper. With him back in the fold, Steele is likely to look like a genius no matter what. But if the Falcons cannot retain him, Steele will be coaching up a lot of youngsters.
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